Bay State News

A recent analysis by the Election Modernization Coalition highlights the potential benefits of implementing same-day voter registration in Massachusetts. The study examined provisional ballot data from the 2022 statewide election and found that two-thirds of these ballots were rejected for administrative reasons, resulting in approximately 1,600 fewer votes counted. The coalition suggests that 99% of these rejected ballots could have been validated if same-day voter registration had been available.

Provisional ballots are used when a voter's information is incorrect or missing at check-in. They serve as a last resort to ensure eligible voters can still cast their votes. Same-day registration could streamline resolving voter registration issues, potentially eliminating the need for provisional ballots.

Geoff Foster, executive director of Common Cause Massachusetts, stated, “Same-day voter registration would free town clerks and city election officials from the cumbersome provisional ballot process.” Cheryl Clyburn-Crawford, executive director of MassVOTE, emphasized that “casting a vote should be a simple and accessible act for all citizens,” adding that same-day registration could reduce administrative obstacles.

Patricia Comfort from the League of Women Voters of Massachusetts noted that enacting same-day voter registration would ease burdens on election officials. Shanique Spalding from the MA Voter Table highlighted its importance for empowering underrepresented voters.

Janet Domenitz of MASSPIRG pointed out that this reform aligns with efforts to modernize voting practices in Massachusetts. Gavi Wolfe from the ACLU of Massachusetts described provisional ballots as "confusing and cumbersome," advocating for same-day registration to ensure every vote counts.

Jacob Love from Lawyers for Civil Rights called it a "commonsense policy" to boost access to voting. Barbara L’Italien from the Disability Law Center emphasized its role in making democracy inclusive and accessible.

The coalition urges lawmakers to pass the Voting ACCESS Act this session to implement these changes and improve the voting experience across Massachusetts.