Louisiana House Bill HR145

Louisiana 2012 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/30/12
• Passed: 5/31/12

Caption

Requests the House Committee on House and Governmental Affairs to study the feasibility of implementing same-day voter registration in the state and report its findings to the legislature by Dec. 31, 2012

Impact

If pursued, this resolution would significantly alter the current voter registration protocol in Louisiana, where registration records are typically closed thirty days before an election. The committee's findings could lead to modifications in state legislation, potentially enabling voters to register and cast their votes on the same day, thereby addressing barriers to electoral participation. The resolution also stresses utilizing existing technology, such as the statewide voter registration database, to ensure the integrity of the electoral process is maintained while expanding access.

Summary

House Resolution 145 (HR145), introduced by Representative Wesley Bishop, calls for the House Committee on House and Governmental Affairs to investigate the feasibility of implementing same-day voter registration in Louisiana. The resolution emphasizes the importance of voting accessibility, especially as voter engagement tends to peak close to election dates. The proposal aligns with practices in several other states, which allow same-day registration to help increase voter participation in elections.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HR145 appears to be rooted in a push for increased voter engagement and access to the electoral system. Proponents of same-day voter registration argue that such measures would enhance participation rates, making it easier for citizens to participate in democracy. There may, however, be challenges or concerns from opponents regarding the implementation process and maintaining election integrity, indicating a need for a balanced discussion on the impacts of this change.

Contention

Despite the favorable arguments for HR145, potential contention may arise over the details of implementation, particularly regarding how to ensure security and integrity in the registration process. Skeptics may voice concerns about the feasibility of managing a same-day registration system, particularly with respect to verifying voter information quickly and reliably. The outcomes of the committee's investigation will likely highlight these challenges, aiming to propose solutions that both enhance access and protect the electoral framework.