Louisiana Legislature Moves To Extend Early Voting
WASHINGTON, D.C. — A new bill proposed by Democrats in the Louisiana Legislature would significantly increase early voting in Louisiana for presidential elections. House Bill 286 would extend the early voting period in the state from seven to 11 days in an effort to alleviate long wait times at the polls and difficulties casting in-person ballots, especially for Black voters across the state. Last year, Louisiana saw a record-breaking number of voters cast their ballots during the early voting period. However, the seven-day period is significantly lower than the national average, which is around 19 days.
The bill passed the state House with an overwhelming 91-7 vote, and was advanced unanimously in the state Senate despite Republicans controlling the state Legislature. It now moves to Gov. John Bel Edwards (D), who is expected to sign it.