Relating to absentee ballots. Providing that no excuse shall be needed by the voter to receive an absentee ballot.
The proposed amendment is part of a broader push to make voting more accessible, particularly since absentee voting is crucial for those who may be unable to vote in person due to various reasons. Should CACR5 pass, it is expected to enhance the participation of voters who previously faced obstacles in obtaining absentee ballots. This move reflects a growing trend in many states to simplify and liberalize voting procedures, potentially leading to higher voter turnout and engagement in the electoral process.
CACR5 proposes an amendment to the New Hampshire Constitution regarding absentee ballots, stating that no excuse shall be needed for a voter to receive an absentee ballot. This change aims to expand voting access by allowing any qualified voter to request an absentee ballot for any reason, thereby removing current restrictions that only permit absentee voting under specific circumstances such as being out of town or having a physical disability. If approved, this amendment would reflect a significant change in how absentee voting is approached in New Hampshire.
The sentiment surrounding CACR5 appears to be generally positive, particularly among advocacy groups focused on voter rights and election accessibility. Supporters argue that this change will empower voters, providing them with more choices and flexibility in how they participate in elections. However, there may also be concerns from opponents who worry about the implications of such an amendment on election integrity or potential voter fraud, although no significant evidence typically supports these concerns in the context of absentee voting.
Notable points of contention may arise during discussions about the impact of this amendment on election integrity and the potential for increased voter fraud, as critics often highlight. Additionally, while proponents emphasize the accessibility this amendment offers, skeptics may question if removing the excuse requirement could lead to misuse. The final decision regarding this amendment will ultimately rest with the voters, who will decide its fate in the state general election set for November 2026.