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Bill

H 3919

An Act authorizing local voting rights for lawful permanent residents residing in Leverett

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Natalie Blais and 1 co-sponsor

H 3919 permits lawful permanent residents in Leverett to vote in local elections, expanding municipal voting rights beyond U.S. citizens.

Hearing scheduled for 05/06/2025 from 01:00 PM-04:00 PM in B-1
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · H 3919

Legislative bill overview

H 3919 authorizes lawful permanent residents (green card holders) who reside in Leverett, Massachusetts to vote in local municipal elections. The bill has passed the Senate and is currently under review by the Election Laws committee, with a hearing scheduled for May 6, 2025.

Why is this important

This measure directly affects civic participation by extending voting rights to a segment of the population that pays local taxes and is subject to local laws but currently cannot vote. The outcome could set a precedent for other Massachusetts municipalities considering similar local voting expansions, and reflects broader national debates about immigrant political integration.

Potential points of contention

  • Constitutional concerns: Questions about whether local governments can constitutionally extend voting rights beyond U.S. citizens, potentially conflicting with state or federal election law
  • Scope and precedent: Whether establishing voting rights for green card holders in one town creates pressure or obligation for other municipalities to adopt identical policies
  • Implementation and verification: Practical challenges in verifying lawful permanent resident status and maintaining accurate voter rolls in local elections

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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