Bill > S508

This bill proposes significant changes to voting laws that would fundamentally alter voting eligibility, particularly for children and individuals previously considered unable to vote. The bill introduces a new definition of "capacity to make voting decisions independently" and removes restrictions on voting for people under guardianship. It allows voters who lack independent decision-making capacity to receive guidance from family members when casting ballots, with a safeguard that the ballot will not be counted if the voter indicates it should not be. The legislation creates two new non-partisan voter challenge programs: one targeting babies and caregivers through birth centers, childcare centers, and pediatric practices, and another focused on schools and afterschool programs to help facilitate voter registration and outreach. The bill dramatically changes age-related voting terms throughout existing law, replacing references to "years" with "days" in many sections, which suggests an intent to lower voting age dramatically. Additionally, the bill requires that the names and addresses of persons under 17 who request it be included on street lists, and mandates that voter registration notifications include opportunities to register dependent family members. These provisions collectively suggest a radical reimagining of voting rights, potentially extending voting capabilities to very young individuals with appropriate support and guidance.

Government Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S508