Washington 2023-2024 Regular Session

Washington House Bill HB2192

Introduced
1/8/24  

Caption

Celebrating national voter registration day.

Impact

The introduction of HB2192 could lead to enhanced awareness around the significance of voter registration, potentially increasing participation rates in future elections. By designating a specific day to focus on voter registration, state laws could be impacted through initiatives aimed at simplifying the registration process and encouraging outreach efforts. This may result in partnerships between state agencies and community organizations to facilitate voter registration drives, especially in underrepresented communities.

Summary

House Bill 2192 aims to recognize and celebrate National Voter Registration Day, promoting the importance of voter registration as a civic duty. The bill seeks to foster a more inclusive electoral process by encouraging citizens to register to vote and participate in upcoming elections. Supporters believe that highlighting this day could motivate individuals, particularly young adults, to engage in the democratic process and ensure their voices are heard in governance.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB2192 appears to be positive, with many lawmakers and advocacy groups supporting the bill as a necessary step towards promoting civic engagement. However, there are also underlying concerns regarding the effectiveness of such promotional measures, with some critics suggesting that mere recognition without accompanying substantive changes to the voter registration process may have limited impact on actual participation rates.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the question of whether declaring a day for voter registration is sufficient to address obstacles to participation, such as accessibility issues, misinformation, and bureaucratic hurdles. Opponents may argue that while the intention is commendable, it does not address systemic barriers that deter citizens from registering and voting. The debate highlights the need for comprehensive reform in the electoral process to truly enhance voter engagement.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WA HB1916

Amending voter registration challenges and managing voter registration lists.

WA SB5856

Concerning voter registration challenges.

WA HR4616

Celebrating Dairy Day.

WA LB541

Eliminate online voter registration, restrict voter registration by mail, require grounds for early voting, require hand counts of ballots, and change provisions relating to voter registration and voting

WA HB1962

Improving voter registration list accuracy by improving voter address change processes for county election offices and voters.

WA LB218

Change provisions relating to voter registration

WA SB5112

Updating processes related to voter registration.

WA HB1229

Updating processes related to voter registration.

WA HB2004

Providing secure online access to the voter registration database.

WA HR4616

Celebrating Children's Day.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.