Connecticut 2024 Regular Session

Connecticut House Bill HB05311

Introduced
2/28/24  
Introduced
2/28/24  
Report Pass
3/26/24  
Refer
2/28/24  
Refer
2/28/24  
Refer
4/5/24  
Report Pass
3/26/24  
Report Pass
4/11/24  
Refer
4/5/24  
Refer
4/5/24  
Report Pass
4/11/24  

Caption

An Act Concerning The Counting Of Absentee Ballots.

Impact

If enacted, HB 05311 would significantly change the landscape of absentee voting in the state. The bill requires municipal clerks to maintain records of absentee ballot applicants and their voting sets, thus increasing transparency and accountability in the handling of absentee ballots. It establishes stricter guidelines on how municipal clerks must deal with multiple ballot applications from a single voter. These changes align with broader efforts to enhance the integrity of the electoral process, particularly in response to prior concerns regarding absentee ballot security and voter confusion.

Summary

House Bill 05311, titled 'An Act Concerning The Counting Of Absentee Ballots,' aims to amend existing laws regarding the handling and counting of absentee ballots in the state. The bill introduces several important changes to improve the absentee voting process, including provisions for tracking and managing multiple absentee ballots issued to a single voter. This is designed to enhance the accuracy and integrity of the voting process by ensuring that only the most recent ballot submitted is counted, thus preventing potential voter fraud or errors in the counting process.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment around HB 05311 appears to be supportive among those advocating for election integrity and streamlined voting processes. Proponents argue that the bill will help ensure that only valid and accurately submitted ballots are counted, thus boosting voter confidence in the electoral system. However, there may be some contention among voters who are concerned about the implications of stricter regulations and whether they could potentially disenfranchise individuals who face difficulties in managing their absentee ballots.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 05311 revolve around the balance between safeguarding electoral integrity and ensuring accessibility for voters. Critics may argue that the new requirements for managing absentee ballots could complicate the voting process for some, particularly those unfamiliar with the changes or those with disabilities. Furthermore, how municipal clerks implement these changes could vary, leading to inconsistencies across different jurisdictions that might affect voter experience and confidence.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CT HB05529

An Act Concerning Central Counting Of Absentee Ballots.

CT HB05419

An Act Concerning Central Counting Of Absentee Ballots.

CT HB05816

An Act Concerning Absentee Ballots.

CT HB07005

An Act Concerning A Municipal Election Monitor At The 2020 State Election And Processing Of Absentee Ballots For The 2020 State Election.

CT HB06063

An Act Concerning Changes To The Process Of Voting By Absentee Ballot.

CT HB06693

An Act Concerning Absentee Voting.

CT SB00184

An Act Extending Through November 8, 2022, Several Changes Regarding Election Administration As A Result Of Covid-19 And Concerning Eligibility To Vote By Absentee Ballot.

CT HB05498

An Act Concerning Election Security And Transparency, The Counting Of Absentee Ballots, Absentee Voting For Certain Patients Of Nursing Homes, Security Of Certain Election Workers, State Elections Enforcement Commission Complaints, Ballots Made Available In Languages Other Than English And Various Other Revisions Related To Election Administration.

CT HB06325

An Act Concerning The Secretary Of The State, Absentee Ballots And Election Audits.

CT HB07228

An Act Concerning Various Reforms To The Administration Of Elections In This State.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.