Senator Levesque Comments on Voter Suppression Bill, SB 3, Being Ruled Unconstitutional

Contact Name: Sara Persechino

Phone: (603) 271-3479

Email: Sara.Persechino@leg.state.nh.us

NEW HAMPSHIRE - Today, SB 3, a voter suppression bill was ruled unconstitutional by Judge David A. Anderson on the grounds of “unreasonably burdening the right to vote and violating equal protection under the New Hampshire Constitution.” The bill, signed into law by Governor Sununu in 2017, required new voters to present additional paperwork or sign an affidavit to prove New Hampshire residency. The law was quickly brought to court by voting rights advocates stating that the additional requirements would put up roadblocks for eligible New Hampshire voters and cause backups on election day for residents who rely on same-day registration.

Following the court’s decision, Senate Election Law and Municipal Affairs Committee Chair Melanie Levesque (D-Brookline) issued this statement:

“New Hampshire has a long and proud tradition of active political engagement. SB 3 did nothing to secure our elections and only served to make voting more challenging for specific populations of eligible voters. I applaud Judge Anderson’s decision and our state’s continued dedication to fair and accessible voting.”

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