Connecticut Senate Bill SB01046

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/19
• Refer: 3/7/19
• Report Pass: 3/29/19
• Refer: 4/11/19
• Report Pass: 4/17/19
• Refer: 5/14/19
• Report Pass: 5/17/19
• Report Pass: 5/20/19

Caption

An Act Concerning Election Day Registration In Polling Places And Extending The Hours Of Election Day Registration.

Impact

If passed, the bill is expected to amend existing election laws significantly, focusing on timelines and procedures for voter registration. By providing polling places with the ability to register voters on the spot, the law seeks to remove barriers to participation for eligible individuals. The implications include a need for local registrars to be prepared for an influx of same-day registrants and to ensure that their systems can handle these last-minute applications effectively. Overall, it is anticipated to enhance turnout rates among voters who may otherwise face challenges with registration processes.

Summary

SB01046 is an act aimed at improving the accessibility of election day registration in polling places while extending the hours allotted for registration. The bill allows individuals who are not registered to vote to apply for registration at their designated polling place on election day, thereby increasing voter participation. The bill further facilitates changes in voter registration for individuals who wish to move their registration from one municipality to another. It aims to streamline the election day process to ensure that voters can register and vote on the same day, thereby strengthening the democratic process in the state.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB01046 has generally been supportive, particularly among advocates for voting rights who see it as a move towards making elections more accessible. Supporters argue that making election day registration available improves democratic engagement and represents a proactive approach to increasing voter turnout. However, some concerns have been raised regarding the potential complications and logistics involved in processing same-day registrations, including the readiness of polling officials and the security of the registration process on such a critical day.

Contention

While the discussions surrounding the bill have been largely positive, there are notable points of contention. Some legislators and stakeholders express concerns that the measures may overwhelm local election officials tasked with managing voter registrations and the peace at polling places. Questions about the security and verification of on-the-spot registrations have also surfaced, with critics advocating for a more cautious approach to ensure integrity in the electoral system. This tension underscores a broader debate about how to balance accessibility with the need for secure and orderly elections.