Early Voting Bill Gaining Momentum On Beacon Hill
BOSTON (AP) — A bill that would allow early voting up to 11 days before Election Day is making its way through the Massachusetts Statehouse.
The bill would also allow online voter registration and let 16- and 17-year-olds pre-register to vote.
The compromise legislation reconciles separate bills already approved by the House and Senate. It was released from a key committee Tuesday.
The legislation would also create an online portal to check voter registration status and allow for postelection audits of randomly selected precincts after presidential elections
Supporters of the bill say early voting helps citizens better fit voting into busy schedules. Early voting is already available in 32 states.
Voting rights groups also said online registration will encourage more people to register.
The bill heads back to the House and Senate for a final vote.
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