DOVER – Legislation that would allow for no-excuse absentee voting failed in the House Thursday.
Senate Bill 3 was the first leg of a constitutional amendment process and aimed to eliminate from the Delaware Constitution all limitations as to when an individual may vote by absentee ballot. The measure would prescribe that the General Assembly enact general laws providing the circumstances, rules, and procedures for absentee voting.
A House amendment to the measure would have provided additional protections for early voting to Delaware’s constitution, requiring the state to offer in person early voting for 10 days before a general, primary or special election, including the weekend before Election Day.
In response, Rep. Sherae’a “Rae” Moore and Sen. Darius Brown, the prime sponsors of SB 3, issued the following statement:
“This outcome is deeply disappointing, not just for us, but for the thousands of Delawareans who face significant barriers getting to the polls on Election Day.
“For the past several months, we have negotiated in good faith with our colleagues on the other side of the aisle, striving to find common ground and ensure that every eligible Delawarean has the opportunity to vote.
“This should not be a political issue. Both absentee and early voting have consistently proven to be secure and effective methods in Delaware, boosting voter turnout and ensuring that more voices are heard in our democratic process.
“In fact, for more than 60 years now, Delaware has utilized absentee voting securely and reliably. In the last election cycle alone, more than 55,000 Delawareans took advantage of early voting.
“Delawareans deserve the ability to vote without undue hardship, whether through in-person early voting or secure and accessible no-excuse absentee voting. No one should have to choose between earning a paycheck and having the opportunity to vote, nor should they need to justify their chosen voting method. Instead, they should be applauded for fulfilling their civic duties.
“We remain committed to advocating for all residents’ ability to vote safely and securely, whether through this amendment or other initiatives.”
