ACTION NEEDED:
File a witness slip before 2:30 pm. on Wednesday May 9, in support of HB4469. This bill provides a framework to help pre-trial detainees in Illinois exercise their right to vote. It also provides voter education resources to people with a prior conviction, so they may re-engage fully with civic life. You can find more information in the attached
fact sheet.
The Illinois House passed HB4469 on April 24. The Senate Executive Committee is scheduled to consider the bill on Wednesday, May 9, at 2:30 pm. Please fill out your witness slip before that time.
How to file a Witness Slip
Go to:
http://my.ilga.gov/WitnessSlip/Create/109296?committeeHearingId=16042&LegislationId=109296&LegislationDocumentId=138628&SCommittees5%2F14%2F2018-page=1&committeeid=0&chamber=S&nodays=7&_=1525698018291
In Section I, fill in your identification info. (For "Firm/Business," you may write "N/A" or "self.")
In Section II, write "self" (Please do not write "League of Women Voters," as the League has filled out a Witness Slip separately.)
In Section III, select "Proponent."
In Section IV, select "Record of Appearance Only."
Agree to the ILGA Terms of Agreement
Submit
by clicking on
Create (Slip)
WHY IT MATTERS
As stated in our Impact on Issues, "The right of every citizen to vote has been a basic League principle since its origin." (p.11) HB4469 would help all eligible voters in Illinois fully exercise this fundamental right. Further, research indicates that re-enfranchising people with criminal convictions reduces recidivism. HB4469 builds on the positive results of similar measures in several counties, to make sure that all eligible citizens who want to vote get to vote.
Please also contact your state legislators and ask them to support HB4469. Find contact information for your state legislators at
http://openstates.org/find_your_legislator/
