Connecticut House Bill HB05717

Connecticut 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/18/23
• Refer: 1/18/23

Caption

An Act Concerning Universal Civic Duty Voting.

Impact

If enacted, HB 05717 would amend title 9 of the general statutes to include provisions that make it compulsory for qualified electors to participate in elections. The intended effect of this change is to potentially shift the dynamics of voter turnout, as the requirement for participation could lead to increased civic awareness and encourage dialogue about the importance of voting. However, the bill could also necessitate the establishment of additional mechanisms to address non-compliance and ensure adherence to the new voting mandate.

Summary

House Bill 05717, known as the Act Concerning Universal Civic Duty Voting, proposes a significant change to the voting process by requiring each qualified elector to cast a ballot at elections. The bill seeks to enhance civic participation and civic responsibility by mandating that all eligible voters engage in the electoral process by casting their votes. This legislative proposal is geared toward increasing voter turnout and ensuring that the electorate is more actively involved in democratic processes.

Contention

The proposal has generated discussions among legislators, with supporters advocating for its potential to increase democratic engagement and participation rates, while opponents express concerns about the implications of mandating voting. Critics argue that compulsory voting could infringe on individual freedoms and question the practicality of enforcing such a requirement. There are also concerns regarding the accessibility and availability of voting resources to ensure that all qualified electors have the means to comply with the new law.