A proposed bill in the Utah Legislature could bring major changes to voter registration and mail-in ballot deadlines if approved. The measure, introduced by Republican Rep. Doug Fiefia, seeks to end same-day voter registration and impose an earlier cutoff for registration.
Currently, Utah residents can register to vote up to 11 days before an election or even on Election Day itself. Under the proposed legislation, known as HB 445, registration would close 29 days before Election Day, meaning anyone missing the deadline would not be eligible to vote.
Supporters argue that the bill would enhance election security and streamline vote counting, potentially leading to quicker results. However, critics warn that it could reduce voter participation, particularly among those who depend on last-minute registration options.
HB 445 was introduced in the House on Friday, and state senators have already begun weighing in on the proposal.
Sen. Scott Sandall of District 1 acknowledged that voter registration deadlines have not been a major topic of discussion in recent election cycles.
Meanwhile, Sen. Mike McKell of District 25 expressed a desire for a balanced approach, saying, “We want as many people to vote as possible without the risk of fraud, and we want to make the process as accessible as we can.”
In addition to registration changes, the bill also aims to modify mail-in voting rules. Currently, ballots postmarked by Election Day are accepted, even if they arrive later. If the bill passes, ballots would have to physically reach election offices by Election Day to be counted, eliminating the use of postmarks as proof of timely mailing.
Lawmakers are expected to debate the bill in the coming weeks, with discussions likely focusing on how the proposed changes could affect voter turnout and the overall election process.
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