Better Government Association Urges Support on AVR

The Better Government Association is encouraging lawmakers in the Illinois House of Representatives to revive and support SB 250, an important election reform bill. That includes Rep. Michael McAuliffe who voted for SB250 earlier this year. BGA thanks him for his past suppor

Automatic Voter Registration (AVR) would make our voter rolls more accurate and secure by providing for electronic transfer of election information in a seamless process that is less error prone for voters, agency staff and election officials. It saves taxpayer money and makes voter registration more convenient so more eligible voters can participate in our democracy.

AVR was drafted in an open fashion, including input from key stakeholders such as county clerks, the State Board of Elections and the Secretary of State’s office, as well as both Democratic and Republican leaders. It passed with strong bipartisan majorities in the Senate and House and the support of over 50 organizations. Nevertheless, Governor Rauner vetoed AVR in early August.

During a recent session of the legislature, Senators voted to overturn the AVR veto. We hope that the House will do so as well next week, in the closing days of the veto session. When AVR originally passed in the House, Rep. McAuliffe voted yes and we hope that he will continue to support AVR.

Illinois has the opportunity to join other states at the forefront of AVR reform. Read more about it at the Brennan Center for Justice website. And encourage your lawmaker to vote, once again, for SB250.

Judy Stevens

Policy Manager

Better Government Association