Kentucky Senate Bill SB143

Kentucky 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/29/24
• Refer: 1/29/24
• Refer: 1/31/24
• Report Pass: 2/7/24
• Engrossed: 2/13/24
• Refer: 2/13/24
• Refer: 3/11/24
• Report Pass: 3/14/24
• Enrolled: 3/15/24
• Enrolled: 3/21/24
• Chaptered: 3/21/24
• Passed: 3/21/24

Caption

AN ACT proposing to amend Sections 145 and 155 of the Constitution of Kentucky relating to persons entitled to vote.

Impact

If passed, this bill would solidify the existing legal framework regarding voter eligibility by explicitly excluding non-citizens from the voting process. It aims to eliminate any ambiguity about who can legally participate in elections within the state, thereby potentially preventing future challenges or confusion regarding voting rights. The bill will also require a public vote for ratification, thereby involving the electorate in the decision-making process regarding this critical aspect of voter rights.

Summary

SB143 is a proposed constitutional amendment in Kentucky that seeks to clarify the voting rights of U.S. citizens by explicitly prohibiting non-citizens from voting in the state. The bill aims to amend Sections 145 and 155 of the Kentucky Constitution, reinforcing the requirement that only individuals who are citizens of the United States are permitted to cast votes in elections. This change is presented as an effort to uphold the integrity of the electoral process and ensure that all voters are U.S. citizens, in line with similar legislative moves across various states.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB143 appears to be largely supportive among lawmakers advocating for stricter voter eligibility requirements. Proponents argue that the measure is necessary to maintain the integrity of elections and protect the rights of U.S. citizens. However, there is also concern among opponents who view the bill as potentially discriminatory or as a means to suppress voter turnout among certain groups, indicating a split in public opinion regarding its implications on democratic participation.

Contention

Notable points of contention include concerns over the implications of the amendment on local school elections, as the bill also states that this voter eligibility requirement should apply to elections for school trustees and other common school district elections. Critics argue that the amendment may not consider local governance needs and could disenfranchise residents who may contribute to their communities yet lack citizenship. The debate highlights the tension between upholding voting integrity and ensuring fair access to the electoral process for all residents.