Stop bill allowing campaigning near polls

Voting sites for Election Day are increasingly difficult to secure, yet convenient voting locations are essential for voter participation. Senate Bill 1814, sponsored by Sen. Terry Link of Waukegan adds increased burdens on private and nonprofit voting facilities by mandating a forum for political campaigning at private facilities.

In Lake County, there are 34 sites impacted by SB 1814 and 125 voting precincts could be disrupted. The new mandate is expected to reduce the number of private sites willing to open for voting.

State law currently requires elections officials to mark an “Electioneering Zone” 100 feet from the room for voting where political campaigning can occur, but private schools and houses of worship may opt to ban all political activity at their sites. Electioneering has included workers handing out pamphlets, posting signs, parking cars with magnetic signs, and supporters chanting and yelling out their messages.

All government facilities in Illinois are required to allow voting and campaigning on the property, which gives the appearance of endorsing candidates and referendums. This includes municipal, township, library, park and public school buildings. In some communities the practice of campaign workers approaching voters outside a voting site has created disruptions in schools and children being concerned about the strangers at the windows.

Ideally, all electioneering at voting sites would be banned, but it is urgent you contact Sen. Link to stop this additional detriment to convenient voting. Your voice can make a difference no matter where you live in Lake County.

We all can work to keep voting accessible and hassle free. Also take time to ask your local state representative and senator, if not Sen. Link, to oppose this bill.

Willard R. Helander

Lake County Clerk

Waukegan