The Senate Elections & Government Affairs Committee meeting held on March 26, 2025, focused primarily on discussions surrounding Senate Bill 3, which aims to improve absentee voting accessibility in Delaware. Several residents voiced their support for the bill, highlighting the challenges faced by individuals with health issues that prevent them from voting in person.
One resident from North Wilmington shared a personal story about a friend, Jean, who was denied an absentee ballot despite having a doctor's note due to her health condition. This testimony underscored the need for legislative change to ensure that all Delawareans can participate in elections without unnecessary barriers.
Cynthia Carter Wedgwood, another supporter, emphasized the importance of flexibility in voting methods, especially in light of past challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic. She advocated for allowing voters to choose between mail-in voting, early voting, or in-person voting on election day, arguing that the current system should adapt to the needs of the community.
Lourdes Rivera, a member of the We Vote Coalition, also expressed her strong support for Senate Bill 3. She pointed out that the existing requirement for an excuse to vote absentee complicates the process for many, particularly seniors and disabled individuals. Rivera noted that other states have successfully implemented no-excuse absentee voting, suggesting that Delaware should follow suit to make voting more accessible.
The committee meeting concluded with a call for public engagement, encouraging attendees to share their thoughts on the bill. The discussions highlighted a collective desire for reform in Delaware's voting process to ensure that it is fair and accessible for all citizens. The committee's next steps will likely involve further consideration of Senate Bill 3 and its potential impact on the state's electoral system.