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Bill

SD 1414

Proposal for a legislative amendment to the Constitution relative to voting rights

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Liz Miranda

Massachusetts constitutional amendment proposal would expand voting rights eligibility, requiring legislative approval in two sessions and voter referendum to take effect.

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Bill Summary · SD 1414

Legislative bill overview

SD 1414 proposes a constitutional amendment to expand voting rights in Massachusetts. The bill would modify the state constitution to broaden eligibility and/or access to voting, though specific provisions require examination of the full text. Constitutional amendments in Massachusetts require passage by the legislature in two consecutive sessions plus voter approval via referendum.

Why is this important

Voting rights amendments directly affect democratic participation and representation. Constitutional changes establish foundational rules for the electoral system that persist across decades, making them particularly consequential for long-term governance and who can participate in elections.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of expansion: Whether the amendment lowers age requirements, extends voting to non-citizens, restores voting rights to formerly incarcerated individuals, or other eligibility changes will generate differing views on who should participate in elections
  • Implementation costs and logistics: Expanding the electorate may require significant investments in election infrastructure, training, and administration, raising questions about feasibility and funding
  • Federalism and alignment: Massachusetts voting rules must coexist with federal election law; changes could create complexity or conflict with existing voter registration systems and interstate coordination

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

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