Bill > H857

This bill establishes a special commission to investigate methods for increasing voter participation in primary elections, with a specific focus on exploring alternative electoral systems such as the "Top Two Primary system" and examining current party nomination processes. The commission will be composed of 9 members, including 2 senators (one from each party), 2 representatives (one from each party), the Secretary of the Commonwealth, representatives from the Massachusetts Town and City Clerks' Associations, the executive director of Common Cause Massachusetts, and one representative from each political party eligible to conduct primary elections. The commission is tasked with conducting a comprehensive study on potential reforms to primary election rules, including investigating party convention rules, primary election dates, and the possibility of eliminating the current party primary election system. Within six months of the bill's enactment, the commission must submit a detailed report to the General Court, including their findings, recommendations, and draft legislation to implement any proposed changes. The goal of the commission is to develop strategies that could potentially increase voter engagement and participation in primary elections.

Government Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H857