Latest voter-related bill under consideration by full Senate will make it more difficult for Michiganders to exercise constitutional right to vote

Read the full press release here.

MICHIGAN – As early as this week, the Michigan Senate will vote on SB 308, yet another anti-voter bill advanced by a group of legislators working tirelessly to restrict Michiganders’ access to the ballot. Among other things, SB 308 prohibits the signature verification process used for absent voter applications and absent voter ballots from beginning with a presumption that a voter’s signature is their genuine, valid signature, i.e., a “presumption of validity.” In response, Shira Roza, voting rights manager for Promote the Vote, issued the following statement:

“All Michiganders have a constitutional right to vote by absentee ballot. And yet, supporters of SB 308 want to make it more difficult for us to exercise that constitutional right. As has been proven time and time again, Michigan’s voting system – including its signature verification process – is secure. Promote the Vote urges the Senate to stop this effort to infringe upon the constitutional rights of voters based on false and unsupported allegations.”

Starting the signature verification process with a “presumption of validity” means that the process will begin with the presumption that a voter’s signature is their genuine, valid signature. This presumption is simply a starting point — it ensures that the voters of this state are afforded due regard and respect. Beginning with a presumption of validity will ensure that a government official has specific evidence that a signature does not match before rejecting a registered voter’s completed ballot.

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Promote the Vote is a coalition of partner organizations committed to ensuring that Michigan’s voting system works for all. These partner organizations share a rich history and deep investment in preserving and advancing the rights and protections of marginalized communities and Michigan voters.