House Moves Senate’s Comprehensive Election Reform Forward, Sends HB 1672 to Sununu’s Desk
Contact Name: Sara Persechino
Phone: (603) 271-3479
Email: Sara.Persechino@leg.state.nh.us
CONCORD - Today, the House concurred with the Senate recommendation of Ought to Pass as Amended on HB 1672, the Coronavirus Election Protection Act of 2020, in a vote of 195-130. As amended, HB 1672 is an omnibus piece of legislation aimed at modernizing New Hampshire’s elections; it will next be enrolled with the Secretary of State’s office and then go to the governor’s desk for his action at which time he will have five days to act.
After the vote, Senate Election Law and Municipal Affairs Chair Melanie Levesque (D-Brookline) issued the following statement:
“Voting is not just a right, it is our civic duty. As we near September’s state primary elections and November’s general elections, we must take a hard look at both the short and long term impacts of COVID-19 on our election system so that voters are able to participate in safe and fair elections.
The measures contained in HB 1672 work not only to protect public health and safety, but create clear pathways for increased accessibility and participation. Instituting the Electronic Registration Information Center (ERIC), online voter registration, and no excuse absentee ballots will be critical in limiting physical time at polling locations, thereby protecting both the voter and election official, and modernizing a secure and fair system. I’m proud of the work done by the Legislature on this critical issue and urge Governor Sununu to sign this comprehensive election reform into law.”
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