New Hampshire 2024 Regular Session

New Hampshire House Bill HB115

Introduced
12/23/22  
Refer
12/23/22  
Report Pass
11/14/23  
Report DNP
11/14/23  
Engrossed
2/16/24  
Refer
2/16/24  

Caption

Relative to changing the date of the state primary election.

Impact

If enacted, HB 115 would significantly impact state election laws, necessitating updates to various election-related statutes, including those governing voter registration and the timing of primary filings. The proposed shift to June may encourage greater voter turnout by providing a less overwhelming electoral schedule within the election year. Additionally, by altering the registration deadlines and processes, the bill aims to create a more efficient framework for managing voter participation leading up to the primaries.

Summary

House Bill 115 proposes to change the date of the state primary election in New Hampshire from the second Tuesday in September to the third Tuesday in June of every even-numbered year. This amendment aims to align the state's primary election schedule with that of other states, potentially enhancing voter participation and facilitating a more streamlined electoral process. The bill also includes provisions for alterations to party registration and sets specific deadlines for voter registration activities leading up to the primary election date.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 115 appears to be generally positive among its sponsors and some election advocacy groups who believe that changing the primary date will lead to higher voter engagement and improve the overall electoral experience. Conversely, there are concerns from specific factions who worry that the change might confuse voters or lead to logistical challenges for election officials during the transition period. Overall, the discourse reflects a mix of optimism for improved electoral participation and caution regarding the implementation of these changes.

Contention

Notable points of contention have emerged regarding the timing of the primary election. Some legislators fear that moving the primary too close to the general election could lead to voter fatigue and negatively affect turnout. Others have raised questions about how this change would affect candidates’ campaign strategies, particularly those aiming to build momentum ahead of the general elections. Additionally, there are concerns about the adequacy of the transition period for updating systems and informing voters of the new processes.

Companion Bills

NH HB115

Carry Over Relative to changing the date of the state primary election.

Previously Filed As

NH HB115

Relative to changing the date of the state primary election.

NH SB133

Relative to changing the date of the state primary election and creates runoff election for federal primary election.

NH HB333

Relative to changing the date of the state primary election and adding a run-off election if necessary.

NH HB101

Relative to requiring voters declare a party affiliation prior to a state primary election.

NH HB363

Relative to deadlines for candidates filing by nomination papers for state general elections.

NH HB345

Enabling ranked-choice voting for state party primary elections and municipal elections.

NH HB116

Relative to fees and primary petitions required for primary ballot election access.

NH HB40

Relative to domicile residency, voter registration, and investigation of voter verification letters, and relative to the terms "resident," "inhabitant," "residence," and "residency."

NH SB220

Modifying the absentee voter registration process, absentee ballot application, and absentee ballot voting process.

NH HB460

Relative to eliminating voter identification exceptions.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.