Connecticut Senate Bill SB00802

Connecticut 2021 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/1/21
• Refer: 2/1/21

Caption

An Act Concerning The Administration Of Elections.

Impact

The implications of SB00802 on state laws are considerable. By instituting these rules, the bill modifies how elections are conducted in Connecticut, potentially increasing voter accountability and the overall trust in the electoral process. The change to require photo ID could pose challenges for some voters, particularly those without easy access to such forms of identification. Additionally, prohibiting unsolicited mailing of absentee ballot applications could limit voters' options to participate in elections, particularly during times when in-person voting is less feasible.

Summary

SB00802, titled 'An Act Concerning The Administration Of Elections', proposes several amendments to the election laws in Connecticut. A significant focus of the bill is to enhance the security and integrity of the voting process. One notable feature of the bill is the requirement for voters to present valid photo identification before casting their ballots, a measure intended to prevent voter impersonation. It also introduces a system for verifying signatures on absentee ballot envelopes, which aims to reduce fraud related to mail-in voting procedures.

Contention

Discussion surrounding the bill indicates significant contention, particularly over the voter ID requirement. Advocates argue that such measures are necessary to safeguard against electoral fraud, while opponents contend that they could disenfranchise vulnerable populations, including low-income individuals and minorities who may have difficulty obtaining the required identification. Furthermore, the decision to withdraw Connecticut from the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact has stirred debates about state sovereignty in election laws versus the push for a more unified national election system.