Rhode Island Senate Bill S0841

Rhode Island 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/29/23
• Refer: 3/29/23

Caption

Conduct Of Election And Voting Equipment And Supplies

Impact

The proposed amendments would also stipulate that local boards of canvassers and the state board of elections are responsible for tallying write-in votes for candidates who file this declaration of intent. This change is significant because it formalizes the process and ensures that votes for write-in candidates are accurately counted, promoting transparency in the electoral process. Furthermore, the bill mandates that write-in votes shall be counted in contests where no candidate officially appears on the ballot, addressing potential gaps in representation.

Summary

Bill S0841, introduced in the Rhode Island General Assembly, aims to amend existing laws related to elections, specifically focusing on the conduct of elections and the treatment of write-in candidates. The bill requires that write-in candidates file a declaration of intent with the same office with which they would submit a declaration of candidacy. This initiative is designed to enhance the legitimacy and accountability of write-in candidates by ensuring they meet specific eligibility standards similar to those of standard candidates.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding S0841 is the implementation of similar residency requirements for write-in candidates as those for declared candidates. While this regulation may reduce instances of ineligible candidates, critics argue that it could inadvertently limit voter choice by making it more challenging for individuals who are not part of the established political framework to run. Additionally, the requirement to file a declaration could be seen as an administrative hurdle for grassroots movements and independent candidates seeking to participate in elections.