Background: Senate File 78 prohibits anyone but a county clerk, the secretary of state, or people they designate from distributing absentee ballot request forms to Wyoming voters.

Our position: The ACLU of Wyoming opposes Senate File 78. Because nothing is more sacred to our democracy than the right to vote, our elected officials should be doing everything they can to encourage people to vote, not make it harder, as Senate File 78 would do.

Senate File 78 will prohibit volunteers from organizations participating in get out the vote activities to distribute absentee ballot applications. With organizations providing services to seniors, students, or people who are homebound, this bill prevents their work to ensure and expand access to the ballot. Prohibiting assistance that provides access to the voting process to others limits participation for Wyoming’s most vulnerable citizens.

Senate File 78 not only undermines the essence of community support and civic culture but also obstructs the fundamental democratic process. Our elected officials should celebrate civic-minded people who help voters make their voice heard, not prohibit their assistance. Senate File 78 has no place in our democracy.

Sponsors

Sens. Hutchings, Biteman, and Ide, and Reps. Knapp and Singh

Status

Introduced

Session

2025

Bill number

Position

Oppose