AN ACT TO AUTHORIZE THE SECRETARY OF STATE TO ESTABLISH A SECURE WEBSITE TO ENABLE STUDENT VOTERS TO SUBMIT ELECTRONIC ABSENTEE BALLOT APPLICATIONS; TO ESTABLISH THE DOCUMENTS WHICH MUST BE SUBMITTED BY THE STUDENT TO APPROVE SUCH APPLICATIONS; TO PROVIDE THAT UPON APPROVAL, STUDENT ABSENTEE VOTERS MAY BE AUTOMATICALLY MAILED ABSENTEE BALLOTS FOR ALL ELECTIONS THAT OCCUR FOR A CERTAIN PERIOD OF TIME; TO AMEND SECTIONS 23-15-627, 23-15-631, 23-15-715 AND 23-15-721, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO CONFORM; AND FOR RELATED PURPOSES.
Impact
The introduction of a secure online platform for submitting absentee ballot applications is expected to increase participation among student voters who often face challenges in voting while away from their registered voting locations. The bill stipulates that once a student’s application is approved, they will be automatically mailed absentee ballots for all elections occurring within a specified timeframe, making it easier for students to fulfill their voting responsibilities without the need to return to their home towns.
Summary
Senate Bill 2047 aims to streamline the absentee voting process for student voters in Mississippi by allowing them to submit electronic absentee ballot applications through a secure website. The bill defines 'student absentee voter' as any registered elector enrolled in an institution of higher education who is unable to vote in person on election day due to their studies. This facilitates a more accessible voting process for students who may not be in their home counties during elections.
Contention
One notable point of contention could arise around the verification process for these applications, as it requires students to submit not only their applications but also a copy of their student identification cards, verified by their registrar. There might be concerns regarding the security of the data submitted online and whether it adequately protects the identity of student voters. Additionally, the requirement to reapply before the end of June each year may be seen as cumbersome by some advocates for student voter rights.
Legislative considerations
The bill also amends existing statutes within the Mississippi Code to ensure consistency with the new electronic application process. However, discussions in the legislature may focus on balancing the need for security and ease of access to voting for students, highlighting broader concerns about voter participation rates in younger demographics.
Requires undergraduate students to file degree plan and requires institutions of higher education and certain propriety institutions to develop pathway systems to graduation.
Requires undergraduate students to file degree plan and requires institutions of higher education and certain proprietary institutions to develop pathway systems to graduation.
Establishes process for merger or consolidation of public institution of higher education with other institutions of higher education or certain proprietary institutions; requires executive and legislative approval of merger or consolidation.
Establishes process for merger or consolidation of public institution of higher education with other institutions of higher education or certain proprietary institutions; requires executive and legislative approval of merger or consolidation.
Relating to the issuance of a diploma to a student graduating from a public institution of higher education that has undergone a merger, acquisition, or name change.