In an attempt to reshape the way Oklahomans vote, the state House of Representatives has passed a significant piece of legislation this week. Spearheaded by Rep. Mike Osburn, R-Edmond, Senate Bill 652 aims to streamline the election process by paring down the number of potential election days significantly, setting a standardized schedule with five designated election days throughout the year. As reported by the Oklahoma House of Representatives, these days will fall in February, April, June, August and November, replacing the existing system that offers twelve possible election dates in odd years and seven in even years.
Mike Osburn presented the bill as a means to enhance voter engagement and provide relief for poll workers who must currently navigate the less predictable calendar. "The passage of Senate Bill 652 is a forward-looking effort to bring greater clarity, consistency and accessibility to Oklahoma’s electoral process," Osburn stated in a statement released by the Oklahoma House. The representative emphasized that this isn't merely a change in schedule but a gesture of respect towards the electorate's time and participation.
Authored by Pro Tempore Lonnie Paxton, R-Tuttle, the bill was met with unanimous support in the house, with a vote count of 93-0. Paxton has lauded the bill for its potential to make elections more manageable for voters. "By consolidating election dates, it will promote greater clarity for voters and improve access to the ballot," Paxton stated in the Oklahoma House announcement. "With a more structured election schedule, it will provide consistency and give voters greater opportunity to plan ahead and participate in the democratic process."
Despite alterations in the scheduling of certain special elections, propositions, and candidate races, traditional elements such as absentee and early voting remain unchanged under the new bill. While the new structure could affect the timing of some special elections, intervals for gubernatorial-called specials and additional elections now have clearer guidelines. Having passed the House, SB652 now circles back to the Senate for further consideration on the amendments put forth by the lower chamber.
