Connecticut Senate Bill SB00656

Connecticut 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/16/25
• Refer: 1/16/25

Caption

An Act Concerning Verification Of Residential Addresses Of Electors Voting By Absentee Ballot.

Impact

The implications of SB00656 on state laws primarily involve changes to Chapter 145 of the general statutes, which prescribes the responsibilities of registrars in relation to absentee voting. By instituting a verification process, the bill seeks to enhance the reliability of voter data and promote confidence in the electoral system among the public. This could also have administrative repercussions, potentially requiring additional resources and measures from election offices statewide to manage the verification process effectively. As a result, all local election offices may need to develop protocols for handling the confirmation notices and ensuring compliance with the requirements set forth by the bill.

Summary

SB00656 is a legislative proposal concerning the verification of residential addresses for electors voting by absentee ballot. The bill mandates that, at the conclusion of absentee ballot counting during an election or primary, registrars of voters must send a confirmation notice to the residential address shown on the absentee ballot application. This measure aims to ensure that the addresses provided correspond to the actual residences of the voters, thereby reinforcing the integrity of the absentee voting process. The purpose of this verification is not only to ensure accuracy in electoral rolls but also to mitigate potential instances of voter fraud.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB00656 may include debates on the practicality and efficacy of the proposed verification mechanism and concerns regarding its impact on voter turnout, particularly among groups that rely on absentee voting. Critics might argue that adding another layer of verification could unnecessarily complicate the voting process for those who legitimately vote absentee and may disenfranchise voters who do not receive or respond to confirmation notices. Proponents, on the other hand, would contend that such measures are crucial for maintaining election integrity and safeguarding the electoral process against fraudulent activities.