Virginia Senate Bill SB209

Virginia 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/10/22
• Refer: 1/10/22

Caption

Lists of persons voting at elections; disclosure of individual voting history prohibited.

Impact

The passage of SB209 is anticipated to enhance the privacy protections for voters by limiting access to their voting histories. It delineates the conditions under which this data can be shared, specifically focusing on its use by candidates, political committees, and organizations promoting civic engagement. By controlling the distribution of this data, the bill aims to alleviate concerns regarding potential misuse of voting information, which has become a topic of growing importance in contemporary electoral discussions.

Summary

Senate Bill 209 (SB209) seeks to revise the handling and disclosure of voting histories within the state. The bill amends §24.2-406 of the Code of Virginia to clarify who can access lists of individuals who voted in elections over the past four years. The primary aim is to ensure that this sensitive information is used strictly for campaigning, political purposes, and voter engagement activities while restricting access to the general public to protect voter privacy. The bill emphasizes that such data must not be disclosed to third parties, reinforcing the confidentiality of individual voting records.

Contention

While the bill presents measures to safeguard voter information, it has also sparked debates regarding transparency in the electoral process. Critics might argue that restricting access to voting history could hinder the ability of political parties or organizations to engage effectively with voters. Advocates for stronger voter privacy see merit in protecting individuals from potential intimidation or harassment based on their voting history. Consequently, discussions surrounding SB209 highlight the balance between preserving electoral integrity and ensuring accessible voter participation.