Chap 8State Electoral Laws and Participation

Part 4: State Electoral Laws and Participation (pp. 304-310)

1. State Control Over Elections:

●      Voter Registration Requirements: Vary widely between states, often requiring voters to register weeks before an election, which can act as a barrier to participation.

●      Identification Laws: Some states require specific forms of ID for voters, which can discourage participation among marginalized groups.

●      Felony Disenfranchisement: Laws in many states restrict the voting rights of individuals convicted of felonies, impacting participation rates.

2. Reforms to Increase Participation:

●      Automatic Registration: Registers voters automatically when they interact with state agencies, like renewing a driver’s license.

●      Same-Day Registration: Allows individuals to register to vote on election day itself, leading to increased voter turnout.

●      Permanent Absentee Ballots: Enables voters to receive ballots by mail for every election, making voting more accessible.

●      Early Voting: Provides a time window before election day when people can cast their ballots, accommodating those unable to vote on the official day.

3. Recent Changes in Voting Laws:

●      Post-2020 Adjustments: Some states have enacted measures to make voting more accessible, while others have tightened rules to prevent perceived election fraud.

4. Key Terms:

●      Same-Day Registration (p. 305): Voters can register and vote on the same day.

●      Permanent Absentee Ballots (p. 306): Allows voters to receive ballots by mail for every election.

●      Early Voting (p. 308): Voting before the official election day.