In response to the increasing demand for early in-person voting, the Senate has passed legislation sponsored by Senator Brian Stack to extend the early voting period for both presidential and nonpresidential primary elections. This measure aims to improve voter access, minimize wait times, and support the growing number of early voters.

Under Bill S-3990, early voting for both presidential and nonpresidential primary elections will now start on the seventh day before the primary, providing voters with six days to cast their ballots in advance.

“This legislation marks a pivotal step in broadening voter access and modernizing our electoral process,” said Senator Stack (D-Hudson). “We will continue working alongside election officials to address any logistical challenges and ensure a smooth transition to a longer early voting period. This is not just progress. It is a strong commitment to strengthening our democracy by making it easier for every eligible voter to participate in the electoral process.”

Currently, early voting for general elections lasts nine days over two weekends, while primary elections have a shorter window of either three or five days, covering just one weekend. This legislation establishes a uniform six-day early voting period for all primaries, expanding nonpresidential primary early voting from three to six days and adjusting presidential primaries from five days to six. By creating a standardized timeline, the bill enhances voter accessibility while maintaining a balanced and efficient early voting process.

By expanding early in-person voting opportunities, this measure improves accessibility and ensures that more eligible voters have the flexibility to cast their ballots at a time that works for them.

The bill passed the Senate in a 25-13 vote.