Bill > S519

This bill proposes changing the primary election day in Massachusetts to the third Tuesday of May, moving it earlier in the year compared to the current practice. The legislation aims to create a more extended election campaign season, with the primary occurring before the summer and the general election in the fall. The bill's intent is to potentially increase voter turnout and public engagement by providing more time for candidates to campaign and voters to become informed. The Secretary of the Commonwealth, who serves as the Chief Election Officer, would have full authority to establish the necessary rules and regulations for this new primary election day, including provisions for absentee ballots, early voting, mail-in voting, and other standard election procedures. By setting a consistent and earlier primary date, the bill seeks to improve the democratic process by giving voters more time to learn about candidates and electoral choices before the general election.

Government Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S519