SB 5209 Moves out of Committee

Thanks to the leadership of Senator Sam Hunt, SB 5209, which would establish universal civic duty voting in Washington, has moved to the Rules Committee with a “do pass” recommendation.

At the hearing last week, lawmakers heard from constituents and experts about how universal voting could transform democracy and voter turnout in Washington state.  It’s an important step for a universal voting bill to move out of committee and the action will allow more lawmakers to discuss the policy. 

The Everett Herald’s editorial board wrote about the bill and what it might mean for the state of Washington. Their conclusion? “[B]ecause of the outcomes it promises in voter participation, education and satisfaction in elections, Washington state should be ready to discuss it further.” Read more here.