Relating to voting eligibility. Providing that only legal resident citizens who are at least 18 years of age or older who reside in the place they claim as a domicile shall be eligible voters.
If passed, CACR4 would amend the New Hampshire Constitution, modifying Article 11, which currently allows inhabitants aged 18 and older to vote. The amendment explicitly narrows this right to legal citizens who truly reside at their claimed domicile, thereby tightening eligibility criteria. This could impact various voter registration processes and challenge existing norms regarding voting rights for individuals who may not meet the new definitions of domicile.
CACR4 is a proposed constitutional amendment in New Hampshire that aims to define and clarify voting eligibility in the state. Specifically, it seeks to ensure that only legal resident citizens who are at least 18 years of age and actually reside in the place they claim as domicile are eligible to vote. This amendment will guarantee the right of all such legal residents to participate in elections at their designated domicile, reinforcing the principle of local voting based on actual residency.
The sentiment surrounding CACR4 is mixed, with support for the measure typically coming from legislators who advocate for stricter voting laws and the idea of ensuring that only true residents are allowed to vote. Conversely, critics argue that such measures could disenfranchise eligible voters who may not have permanent residency documentation or may be disproportionately affected by these new restrictions.
The notable points of contention include concerns that the amendment could restrict voting rights for some citizen groups, particularly those who face challenges in proving their residency. Opponents worry that this could lead to increased barriers to voting, which may disproportionately affect students, transient workers, and low-income groups who may struggle to provide the proof of residency required under the new criteria.