Press Statement from the Election Modernization Coalition

For the first time in Massachusetts history, new voting reforms give people more opportunities to register, to vote and to track their ballot. As a result of a law advanced by the Election Modernization Coalition, including the seven groups on this letterhead, the Safe Elections Act is in full swing and all signals show to great effect. As of the end of the day Sunday, Oct. 18, the office of the Secretary of State showed that more than half a million people had cast ballots–either voting early  in person or by a mail ballot. 

A crucial feature of this legislation  is extended time for voter registration. For the first time, the voter registration deadline falls after the start  of in-person voting.  Prior to this law, the last day to register to vote was 20 days before Election Day. That 20- day deadline has been reduced to 10 days. Therefore,until Saturday October 24, Bay Staters who have a Massachusetts driver’s license or state ID card may use the online voter registration application to register, update their address, or change their party affiliation. Polling locations with real-time access to the voter registration rolls – primarily city or town hall – will offer a form or same-day registration, where voters can register and then cast a ballot. Voters who want to take advantage of this option should check their town’s website for more information. In every city and town, early voting goes through Friday, October 30. Hours and locations of early voting are listed at:  www.MassEarlyVote.com.