Smooth sailing seen for auto-voter bill
BOSTON - A co-sponsor of automatic voter registration legislation advancing in the House Wednesday said he expects to see the measure become law in a matter of weeks.“I’d be surprised if it isn’t signed into law in the next month,” state Rep. Jay Livingstone said.Livingstone joined Boston City Councilors Josh Zakim and Matt O’Malley at a State House press conference to tout the bill, which would automatically register eligible voters when they interact with a state agency such as the Registry of Motor Vehicles or MassHealth. People could opt out of registering to vote if they wish.Zakim, a Democrat running for secretary of state, said the bill would boost registration across demographic groups and could be particularly beneficial for communities of color and populations that are younger, low income or move frequently.As the press conference was being held, the House voted to advance the bill, with plans to consider possible amendments and send it to the Senate later Wednesday.“Looking forward to voting for #AVRinMA in the @MA_Senate after it passes in the Massachusetts House!!” Senate Majority Leader Cynthia Creem tweeted Tuesday.The bill has an effective date of Jan. 1, 2020.http://www.metrowestdailynews.com/news/20180627/smooth-sailing-seen-for-auto-voter-billhttp://www.patriotledger.com/news/20180628/smooth-sailing-seen-for-auto-voter-bill