The Connecticut State Legislature has introduced Senate Bill 1535, aimed at enhancing the integrity and efficiency of the state's electoral process. Introduced on March 20, 2025, the bill proposes significant changes to the management of polling places and the responsibilities of election moderators.

One of the key provisions of Senate Bill 1535 mandates that registrars of voters provide a detailed report to the Secretary of the State at least 14 days before early voting begins. This report must include the names and addresses of moderators for each polling location, early voting site, and same-day registration processing location. This requirement is designed to improve transparency and accountability in the election process.

Additionally, the bill grants the Secretary of the State the authority to disqualify any moderator found to have committed serious misconduct or negligence. This provision aims to ensure that only qualified individuals oversee the electoral process, thereby enhancing public trust in election outcomes.

The bill has sparked discussions among lawmakers, with some expressing concerns about the potential for overreach in the Secretary's disqualification powers. Critics argue that this could lead to arbitrary decisions that may affect the availability of experienced moderators at polling places. Supporters, however, contend that the measures are necessary to uphold the integrity of elections and protect against potential misconduct.

Senate Bill 1535 also includes provisions for streamlining the voter enrollment process. It allows individuals not currently on the voter rolls to apply for enrollment at any time, which could increase voter participation and accessibility.

The implications of this bill are significant, as it seeks to address ongoing concerns about election integrity and voter access in Connecticut. Experts suggest that if passed, the bill could serve as a model for other states grappling with similar issues. The legislature is expected to continue discussions on the bill in the coming weeks, with potential amendments and debates likely to shape its final form.