Dupage Policy Journal

In Illinois, options for voting will likely expand. 

The state Senate approved legislation that would allow voters to cast their ballots in future elections using methods permitted in the 2020 general election. 

"I am proud that Illinois distinguished itself from those states seeking to restrict voting access and instead passed legislation making it easier for everyone to participate in this vital aspect of our democracy," Senate President Don Harmon (D-Oak Park) said in a Facebook post linking to a Chicago Sun-Times article. 

The new bill will allow local election officials to set up perpetual ballot drop-boxes that would accommodate vote-by-mail votes. It also dictates that those election officials must admit a mailed ballot even if it has deficient postage.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the initial expanded options were created in anticipation of an increase in mail-in voting for the 2020 general election. 

However, the changes lapsed at the beginning of 2021.

If Gov. J.B. Pritzker signs the legislation, it will apply to all elections conducted in the state. 

The bill would also include curbside voting, which allows voters to fill out ballots from their vehicles. That means they never have to walk into a polling station or stand in the long lines.

"Our state is stronger when all citizens have the opportunity to make their voices heard," Harmon said.