Already, nearly half of people who vote in the state do so by mail. “This bill would change the way we vote in Hawaii in an attempt to increase voter participation and reduce costs,” Rep. Chris Todd, D-Hilo, wrote in a Facebook post. “HB 1401 would mean every registered voter receives a ballot in the mail and mails it back in — this process is already available by request, but this bill would make it the norm.” The bill passed third reading and House conferees were appointed to iron out wrinkles. Voters could still cast ballots in person if they prefer. But long lines at polling stations would presumably become a thing of the past. Each eligible voter would be mailed a ballot prior to an election and asked to mail it back.
During a telephone interview, Todd said he thinks the bill has the necessary safeguards to increase voter turnout while preventing fraud. For example, voter signatures will be verified.
The legislative description for House Bill 1401 says a limited number of polling stations, called “voter service centers,” would stay open to accommodate people with special needs, offer same-day registration, accept ballots being dropped off in person and allow people who prefer to vote in person to do so.
The bill, if passed, will take effect in the 2020 election cycle. But the measure specifically notes it “allows any election to be conducted by mail prior to the 2020 primary election, in whole or in part, as determined by the chief election officer or county clerk.”
Full Article: Will voting by mail become standard? Hawaii lawmakers considering bill that would make it the norm | Hawaii Tribune-Herald.