RI
Rhode Island Senate Bill S0820

Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S0820

Introduced
3/14/25  

Caption

JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE AND PUBLISH AND SUBMIT TO THE ELECTORS A PROPOSITION OF AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION -- OF SUFFRAGE (Would propose to the voters of the state a constitutional amendment regarding eligibility to vote and to be a candidate.)

Impact

The amendment would alter Article II of the Rhode Island Constitution, specifically its sections on suffrage. By permitting same-day registration, the bill's supporters argue that it would enhance democracy by making it easier for citizens to exercise their right to vote. Additionally, provisions for absentee voting would be improved, pending legislative action. The proposed amendment acknowledges that the responsibilities regarding voter eligibility would still lie with the General Assembly, which could further define residency for voting purposes.

Summary

S0820 is a joint resolution proposing a constitutional amendment in Rhode Island regarding voting eligibility and candidate nomination processes. The bill aims to streamline the voting process by eliminating the existing thirty-day residency requirement for voters. Instead, it would allow individuals to register to vote on the same day as an election, thereby promoting increased voter participation. This change is intended to address barriers that potential voters face, particularly those who may be transient or new to the state.

Contention

While proponents of S0820 argue it will foster greater electoral participation and engagement, there are concerns from opponents regarding the potential for increased voter fraud and the logistical challenges associated with same-day registration. Critics fear that allowing voters to register on election day may complicate the electoral process and make it more susceptible to malpractices. The discourse surrounding the bill reflects a broader national conversation on voting rights and election integrity, where issues such as accessibility and security must be balanced.

Latest S0820 Activity

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H5386

JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE AND PUBLISH AND SUBMIT TO THE ELECTORS A PROPOSITION OF AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION -- JURY NULLIFICATION AS PROPER TRIAL DEFENSE ARGUMENT (This joint resolution would propose to the voters a constitutional amendment which would allow a criminal defendant to argue jury nullification as a defense.)

RI S0327

JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE AND PUBLISH AND SUBMIT TO THE ELECTORS A PROPOSITION OF AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION -- GREEN AMENDMENT (Proposes a constitutional amendment to Article 1 providing for a right to clean air, soil, climate, and the environment’s natural values.)

RI H5732

JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE AND PUBLISH AND SUBMIT TO THE ELECTORS A PROPOSITION OF AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION – GREEN AMENDMENT (Proposes a constitutional amendment to Article 1 providing for a right to clean air, soil, climate, and the environment’s natural values.)

RI H5459

JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE, PUBLISH AND SUBMIT TO THE ELECTORS A PROPOSITION OF AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION -- RIGHT TO AN ADEQUATE EDUCATION (Amends the constitution to guarantee Rhode Island residents with equal opportunity to receive an education that is adequate, equitable and meaningful and provides judicial enforcement of this provision.)

RI S0177

JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE, PUBLISH AND SUBMIT TO THE ELECTORS A PROPOSITION OF AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION -- RIGHT TO AN ADEQUATE EDUCATION (Amends the constitution to guarantee Rhode Island residents with equal opportunity to receive an education that is adequate, equitable and meaningful and provides judicial enforcement of this provision.)

RI H5515

JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE AND PUBLISH AND SUBMIT TO THE ELECTORS A PROPOSITION OF AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION -- OF SUFFRAGE (Would propose to the voters of the state a constitutional amendment regarding eligibility to vote and to be a candidate.)

RI S0725

JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE AND PUBLISH AND SUBMIT TO THE ELECTORS A PROPOSITION OF AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION -- OF THE LEGISLATIVE POWER (Proposes a state constitutional amendment that no department or other entity created by the state would have poser to incur debt in excess of $ 50,000, without express approval from the legislature and voters.)

RI S0308

JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE AND PUBLISH AND SUBMIT TO THE ELECTORS A PROPOSITION OF AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION OF THE STATE -- REFERENDUM ON LINE ITEM VETO (This proposed amendment to the Constitution would provide the governor with a line item veto on the budget and other bills for the appropriation of money.)

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.