Same Day Voter Registration Passes NM House Consumer & Public Affairs

From the NM House Leadership:
Two bills that would allow same-day voter registration were presented in House Consumer & Public Affairs yesterday. HB 394, introduced by Rep. Joseph Cervantes (D- Las Cruces), was tabled at his request. The second bill (HB 346) introduced by Rep. Mary Helen Garcia (D-Las Cruces) received a do pass recommendation with a vote of 4 to 3.

House Bill 346 permits same-day registration in primary and general elections at the polling place for the precinct in which the voter resides. The qualified voter would be allowed to complete a certificate of registration and cast a ballot with the presentation of a valid photo identification card, utility bill, bank statement, government check, paycheck, student identification card or other government document, including identification issued by an Indian nation, tribe or pueblo.

Rep. Garcia said, “I would like to thank Rep. Cervantes for requesting that his bill be tabled. It was a coincidence that we both introduced bills that were almost identical. Rep. Cervantes is a true gentleman and I consider him a full partner in this same-day voter registration effort.”

In support of HB 346 Rep Cervantes said, “I believe that it is time to move beyond our outdated attitudes towards voting. Decades ago it took days and weeks to accurately maintain voting records. Today that work can be done in seconds. We must embrace technology because it makes it easier for a person to vote while ensuring the integrity of the system.”

Rep. Garcia said, “There are many groups who would benefit from same day voter registration. This includes our young people who move around so much and people with disabilities who often confront barriers to transportation. Many new citizens, people of color, or low-income voters are forced by circumstances to move frequently and they should not be disenfranchised by the system.”

Eight states allow registration and voting on the day of an election. Supporters say that the process increases voter turnout. In New Mexico a voter must be registered 28 days before any type of election to qualify to vote in that election.

“We can bank instantly at an ATM or on-line. Why should voting registration be less secure using the same type of technology?” concluded Rep. Cervantes.

Editor's Note: United Voters of NM, Vertified Voters NM and other election reform activists are supporting the same day voter registration bill. The bill goes next to the House Voters and Elections Committee. To contact members of that committee, click here.