The Indiana Senate wisely let a bill that would have cut early voting days die at the conclusion of this year’s session.
The House measure originally focused on changes to the scanning and storing of early voting ballots. As we see too often with legislation, further language was added to the bill before it was considered in the Senate. That language would have trimmed the state’s early voting period from 28 to 16 days.
Common Cause Indiana Executive Director Julia Vaughn rightfully called the addition a “sneak attack on early voting,” in her comments to the Indiana Capital Chronicle. The timing of the change kept the public from being able to comment on the issue.
Most of us want more voter participation, and that goal requires access and opportunity. Cutting a dozen days of early voting only limits such opportunities. Not everyone is easily able to make it to the polls on Election Day. Early voting allows for 28 other days for Hoosiers to cast their ballots at times that best work for their schedules.
EARLY VOTING reduces lines on Election Day, keeping people from having to wait for hours to exercise their democratic right. That’s good not just for people who have to work, but also an advantage for those who may have disabilities or health issues that make waiting in line a difficult proposition.
Costs of early voting are often cited by proponents of cutting the period, but saving a few dollars at the expense of limiting citizen input isn’t a good trade-off. Elections aren’t businesses – they are the foundation of democracy. Every penny spent on ensuring everyone who is eligible has the opportunity to vote is a wise investment.
But to keep up our part of the deal, Hoosiers must vote. Presidential elections bring large crowds, but municipal and even midterm elections often generate only low turnout. We should care enough about our country, county and community to educate ourselves on issues and candidates, and to get out and vote. Thankfully, we can cast our ballots during early voting or on Election Day.
Early voting for Indiana’s May 5 primary begins April 7. Make sure you’re registered to vote, and make your voice heard.
And to the Indiana Legislature, leave early voting alone. Concentrate on ways to improve the state and encourage more voter participation instead of limiting opportunities for Hoosiers.
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