New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu signs a controversial voter identification and proof-of-citizenship bill into law, sparking debate over election security and voter access.
At a Glance
- Governor Sununu signed House Bill 1569, requiring proof of citizenship for voter registration
- The law will take effect on November 11, 2024, after the upcoming general election
- Acceptable documents include birth certificates, passports, or naturalization papers
- Supporters claim it enhances election integrity, while critics argue it may disenfranchise voters
New Hampshire Tightens Voter Registration Requirements
In a move aimed at bolstering election security, New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu has signed House Bill 1569 into law. The legislation, set to take effect on November 11, 2024, introduces stricter voter identification and proof-of-citizenship requirements for those registering to vote in the Granite State.
Under the new law, first-time registrants will need to present documents such as birth certificates, passports, or naturalization papers to prove their citizenship. The bill also removes exceptions to the state’s existing voter ID requirements and eliminates the affidavit ballot system, which previously allowed voters to sign a sworn statement of eligibility if they lacked proper identification.
In a reversal, Gov. Chris Sununu said he is “definitely leaning towards” signing a bill that would require identification to vote without exceptions and hard proof of U.S. citizenship for first-time NH voters to register. From @edewittnh #NHPolitics https://t.co/tGmMT0EyDR
— New Hampshire Bulletin (@NHBulletinNews) September 12, 2024
Governor Sununu Defends the New Law
Governor Sununu expressed confidence in the new legislation, emphasizing its potential to reinforce trust in the electoral process. In a statement following the bill’s signing, Sununu said:
“We have a proud tradition and proven track record of conducting elections that are trusted and true. Looking forward to the next decade or two, this legislation will instill even more integrity and trust in the voting process,” – Source
The governor dismissed concerns about potential voter disenfranchisement, labeling opposition rhetoric as “fearmongering.” Sununu assured that the new requirements are reasonable and necessary to protect the integrity of New Hampshire’s elections.
Critics Voice Concerns Over Voter Access
Despite the governor’s assurances, voting rights activists and some Democratic lawmakers have expressed alarm over the potential impact of the new law. They argue that it could create unnecessary barriers for eligible voters, particularly those who may lack immediate access to the required documents.
“This extreme legislation signed by the Governor will roll back voting access for all eligible Granite Staters,” said McKenzie St. Germain, campaign director for the New Hampshire Campaign for Voting Rights. “Once this law goes into effect later this year, any voter may be turned away from the polls if they did not have the correct documents, creating massive new changes to New Hampshire’s registration system, burdening our election officials, and disenfranchising eligible voters.” – Source
Critics also point out that there is no evidence of widespread voter fraud in New Hampshire, questioning the necessity of such stringent measures. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of New Hampshire has hinted at potential legal challenges to the law, drawing comparisons to similar legislation in other states that faced constitutional hurdles.
Looking Ahead: Implementation and Impact
While the new law won’t affect the upcoming 2024 general election, its implementation in November 2024 will be closely watched. Election officials will need to prepare for the changes, and voters will have to ensure they have the necessary documentation to register and cast their ballots.
As New Hampshire moves forward with these new voting requirements, the debate over balancing election security with voter access is likely to continue. The law’s impact on voter turnout and election administration will be critical factors in assessing its effectiveness and fairness in the coming years.
Sources:
- Gov. Chris Sununu signs new voting rules bill into law, though it won’t take effect until after election
- N.H. governor signs voter ID overhaul, setting stage for likely court challenge
