Louisiana House Bill HCR18

Louisiana 2020 2nd Special Session

• Introduced: 9/30/20
• Refer: 9/30/20
• Report Pass: 10/7/20

Caption

Requests the clerks of court develop and utilize innovative strategies to recruit commissioners for polling places

Impact

HCR18 aims to make a substantial impact on state laws regarding election administration and the functioning of polling places. By encouraging the recruitment of poll commissioners, the resolution highlights the importance of having adequate personnel to manage the election process, uphold election laws, and maintain order at polling locations. Effective recruitment strategies can lead to better-run elections, which ultimately bolsters the democratic process in Louisiana by ensuring that elections reflect the will of the voters and are conducted fairly and without disruption.

Summary

House Concurrent Resolution 18 (HCR18) focuses on addressing the recruitment challenges for poll commissioners in Louisiana. The resolution urges and requests the clerks of court to develop and utilize innovative strategies to attract more individuals to serve as poll commissioners. This is particularly pertinent given the reported shortage of poll commissioners, which the Secretary of State indicated is exacerbated by a significant number of vacancies in populous parishes like East Baton Rouge and Jefferson. In anticipation of elections, an efficient recruitment strategy is essential for ensuring that electoral processes are conducted smoothly and effectively.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HCR18 appears to be positive, as it addresses a significant concern within the community regarding election administration. Supporters of the resolution emphasize the importance of a well-functioning electoral process and the role of poll commissioners in making that happen. There is an acknowledgment that without sufficient poll workers, the integrity and functionality of elections could be compromised. Overall, the resolution is viewed as a proactive measure to address a pressing issue related to citizen engagement in the electoral process.

Contention

While generally well-received, there could be some contention regarding the methods of recruitment that may be employed. The resolution does not outline specific strategies, which may lead to discussions about the appropriateness or effectiveness of various recruitment initiatives. Concerns may arise if proposed strategies are perceived as insufficient or if they do not adequately address the underlying issues contributing to the shortage of willing volunteers. This resolution stands as an invitation for innovation in recruiting strategies, yet it also opens the door for debate on how best to engage the community to foster greater participation in the electoral process.