Legislation would make it harder to vote in Iowa

The Iowa Legislature has spent much of the current session attempting to solve problems that do not exist. The latest example is the progression of two identical bills, HF 590 and SF 413, being rushed through the Legislature, ostensibly intended to reduce voter fraud - a condition that does not exist in Iowa. The actual effect will be to make it more difficult to vote in Iowa. This legislation will reduce the early voting period in Iowa from the current 29 days to 18 days. This legislation will limit satellite early voting locations. This legislation will limit distribution of absentee ballot request forms by the county auditor. This legislation will limit absentee ballot drop boxes. This legislation will move voters to an inactive status after missing one general election. Again, there is no widespread election fraud in Iowa that necessitates these changes to the election laws.

Our voting rights will be eroded through this legislation. This legislation attempts to limit the ability of Iowans to exercise their right to vote and participate in our democracy. Our lawmakers should be encouraging voter participation in our democracy, not making it more difficult. I encourage you to contact your legislators now to oppose this legislation.

Vicki Aden

Iowa City