Illinois 2023-2024 Regular Session

Illinois House Bill HB2446

Introduced
2/14/23  
Refer
2/15/23  
Introduced
2/14/23  
Refer
2/28/23  
Refer
2/15/23  
Refer
3/10/23  
Refer
2/28/23  
Refer
3/10/23  

Caption

ELEC CD-PRE-REGISTRATION

Impact

The bill represents a significant shift in voter registration practices by enabling preregistration at an earlier age, thereby potentially increasing young voter engagement and participation in elections. Allowing preregistration ensures that eligible young voters are automatically set up to vote when they reach voting age, which could lead to higher turnout rates among first-time voters. The bill aims to modernize and simplify the voter registration process, aligning it with the technological advancements in many public services.

Summary

House Bill 2446, introduced by Rep. Nabeela Syed, amends the Illinois Election Code to allow individuals who are at least 16 years old to preregister to vote. The preregistration process will be held in abeyance by the local election authority until the individual reaches the legal voting age of 18. This process must occur through an online voter registration system or an electronic voter registration portal, streamlining the registration process for younger citizens and facilitating their transition to voting once they reach the applicable age.

Contention

There may be points of contention surrounding HB2446 regarding the security and reliability of online voter registration systems, as concerns about data privacy and cybersecurity are paramount. Some skeptics argue that allowing preregistration could lead to complications or mishaps in the electoral process, such as duplicate registrations or handling of electronic signatures. Additionally, the process's accessibility for all eligible voters, particularly those without access to the internet, is an important consideration in the ongoing discussions surrounding the bill's implementation. Overall, while the bill is positioned to benefit young voters, the effectiveness and security of its proposed systems will need careful consideration.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

IL SB1481

ELEC CD-PRE-REGISTRATION

PA HB1703

In voter registration, further providing for methods of voter registration, providing for electronic voter registration, for electronic submission of changes to registration and for time for electronic voter registration and further providing for preparation and distribution of applications and for approval of registration applications; in records, further providing for general register, for district registers and for reports; in changes in records, further providing for removal notices and for change of enrollment of political party; and, in penalties, further providing for altering registration.

PA HB785

In voter registration, further providing for methods of voter registration, providing for electronic voter registration and further providing for preparation and distribution of applications and for approval of registration applications; in records, further providing for general register, for district registers and for reports; in changes in records, further providing for removal notices and for change of enrollment of political party; and, in penalties, further providing for altering registration.

ND SB2178

Data stored in the central voter file and primary election ballots.

PA SB40

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; in registration system, further providing for departmental responsibilities and for SURE system; in voter registration, further providing for methods of voter registration and for application with driver's license application, providing for Commonwealth agencies and other entities and further providing for preparation and distribution of applications and for approval of registration applications; and providing for privacy and security standards for voter registration in this Commonwealth.

PA HB2701

In registration system, further providing for commission staff; in voter registration, further providing for residence of electors, for in-person voter registration, for application with driver's license application, for application by mail, for government agencies, for preparation and distribution of applications and for approval of registration applications; in records, further providing for district registers; in changes in records, repealing provisions relating to change of enrollment of political party; and, in penalties, further providing for preventing registration and for approval of registration.

MI SB0594

Elections: registration; online voter registration process; modify. Amends sec. 509ii of 1954 PA 116 (MCL 168.509ii).

PA HB970

In preliminary provisions relating to voter registration, further providing for standardized forms and for applications; and, in voter registration, further providing for preparation and distribution of applications and providing for government service facilitation.