A coalition of community leaders, advocacy groups, and public officials gathered on National Voter Registration Day to support the introduction of same day voter registration legislation in Massachusetts. The proposed bills, S.505 and H.384, aim to allow eligible voters to register and vote on Election Day.
Geoff Foster, executive director of Common Cause Massachusetts, emphasized the need for this change. “At a time when people need more power to defend democracy peacefully at the ballot box, it’s more important than ever to ensure that every eligible voter who wishes to cast a ballot on Election Day is able to do so,” said Foster. “It’s finally time for same day registration in Massachusetts.”
Officials from Maine and Vermont provided insight into their experiences with same day registration. Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows stated, “Same-day voter registration is the single greatest safety net we have to ensure every eligible voter is able to cast a ballot. After the implementation of same-day voter registration, Maine has consistently ranked in the top ten states for voter turnout. Indeed, in 2022 Maine ranked first in the nation in voter participation.” Vermont Director of Elections Seán Sheehan added, “Since the adoption of same day registration in Vermont, we’ve heard positive feedback from both voters and local election officials. Election officials get the good feeling of being able to help people out and not having to be the bearer of bad news that eligible citizens can’t vote. They can be the hero who can make someone’s day and facilitate their participation in our democracy.”
Boston city leaders addressed concerns about access for local voters. Boston City Council President Ruthzee Louijeune noted that over one-third of all rejected provisional ballots statewide during the 2024 general election came from Boston voters—many could have been avoided with same day registration. In her written testimony she said, “In the 2024 general election, more than one-third of all rejected provisional ballots statewide came from Boston voters, nearly all of which would have been avoided with same-day registration. By allowing voters to register and cast their ballot on the same day, Massachusetts will ensure that those who move frequently, those new to civic engagement, and those previously shut out of the process are finally included.” Councilor Liz Breadon highlighted barriers faced by renters and immigrant communities: “It’s clear that the current 10-day registration cutoff serves as a barrier to voters’ participation in Boston elections, disproportionately impacting our renters and our immigrant communities. With same day registration, every eligible voter would be able to cast a vote on Election Day.”
Healthcare professionals also testified about connections between voting access and community health outcomes. Dr. Alister Martin explained: “Voting and health are deeply connected. Research consistently shows that accessible voting strengthens both democracy and community health. My patients face not just medical issues, but social challenges requiring civic solutions — especially since zip code predicts health outcomes more strongly than genetics.”
Housing advocates pointed out that frequent movers—including college students or unhoused individuals—would benefit from policy changes making it easier for them to participate electorally despite housing instability.
Matt Noyes from Citizens’ Housing and Planning Association said: “Everyone who is eligible to vote deserves a fair opportunity to participate in our democracy, regardless of their financial means or vulnerable housing status. Same day registration is the single best tool to make that a reality. Qualified voters without stable housing will no longer be penalized for the involuntary displacements they experience.”
Faith leaders discussed how current restrictions affect marginalized groups within their congregations.
Pastor Dieufort “Keke” Fleurrisaint commented: “Immigrants and low-income residents often don’t focus on elections because they have immediate, pressing concerns around housing, food, and healthcare. Without same day registration, their voices are excluded. Same day registration is not merely a policy choice, but a moral imperative and necessary if we are to build a truly inclusive and representative democracy in Massachusetts.”
The full hearing was made available online for public viewing.
The bills S.505/H.384 are currently awaiting committee action.
