Georgia Senate Bill SB411

Georgia 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/26/24
• Refer: 1/29/24
• Report Pass: 2/7/24

Caption

Elections; preferential treatment during advance voting to voters accompanied by children five years of age or under; provide

Impact

If enacted, SB411 would directly alter the code governing elections, particularly by amending the procedures related to advance voting and voting on election day. This change aims to remove barriers for certain voters, ensuring they have a more convenient and efficient voting experience. The bill would ensure that, upon request, eligible voters would have the opportunity to vote immediately, thus addressing potential delays that could disenfranchise these groups.

Summary

Senate Bill 411 seeks to amend Georgia's election laws to provide preferential voting treatment to specific groups during advance voting and on election day. The bill focuses on voters who are accompanied by children aged five and under, as well as voters who are 75 years or older or disabled. The intent is to streamline the voting process for these individuals by allowing them to vote without waiting in line at designated times, thereby enhancing accessibility in the electoral process.

Contention

The proposed bill has sparked discussions regarding the balance between accessibility and the potential implications for overall election administration. Supporters argue that prioritizing these groups aids in inclusivity, while opponents may raise concerns about the practical implementation challenges of preferential treatment and whether it inadvertently complicates regular voting processes for other voters.