Vote centers; authorizes State Board of Election to establish pilot program. (SB906)

Introduced By

Sen. Creigh Deeds (D-Charlottesville)

Progress

Introduced
Passed Committee
Passed House
Passed Senate
Signed by Governor
Became Law

Description

Vote centers; pilot program. Authorizes the State Board of Elections to provide for a pilot program in which localities may establish vote centers for use in primary elections instead of having to operate a polling place for every precinct in the locality. A vote center will consist of a location where voters from two or more designated precincts may vote. The State Board shall publish a report on the program by August 15 of any year in which a vote center is used. The provisions of the bill expire on December 31, 2016. Read the Bill »

Status

01/22/2013: Failed to Pass in Committee

History

DateAction
01/04/2013Prefiled and ordered printed; offered 01/09/13
01/04/2013Prefiled and ordered printed; offered 01/09/13 13101722D
01/04/2013Referred to Committee on Privileges and Elections
01/15/2013Assigned to P&E sub: Campaigns and Elections
01/21/2013Impact statement from DPB (SB906)
01/22/2013Passed by indefinitely in Privileges and Elections (9-Y 5-N) (see vote tally)

Comments

ACLU-VA Voting Rights, tracking this bill in Photosynthesis, notes:

The ACLU of Virginia is monitoring this bill. The ACLU of Virginia supports creating opportunities to make voting easier, however the Virginia Constitution requires that elections be administered uniformly throughout the Commonwealth.

Sarah Williams writes:

I hope this bill can be passed, as this practice would offer a net savings of tax dollars that pay for elections. In areas where expected turnout is low, there is no reason that I can see to continue the extra cost if a smaller number of voting locations will serve. The locality should have this option.