Senate Bill No. 1163 aims to enhance the qualifications for individuals appointed as moderators at elections and primaries by prohibiting registrars of voters from designating anyone who has been convicted of, or has pleaded guilty or no contest to, certain offenses. Specifically, this includes felonies related to fraud, forgery, larceny, embezzlement, bribery, or any criminal offense under the state's election laws. The bill replaces existing language in section 9-229(d) and section 9-169 of the general statutes, ensuring that any new moderator must attend instructional and certification sessions, and if they are appointed after these sessions have been conducted, they must receive instruction from the registrars.

The bill also clarifies the responsibilities of registrars in appointing moderators and emphasizes the importance of maintaining the integrity of the election process by ensuring that moderators are certified and free from disqualifying offenses. The changes will take effect on January 1, 2026, and are expected to have no fiscal impact on the state or municipalities. Overall, the legislation seeks to uphold the standards of election administration by ensuring that those in charge of overseeing polling places are trustworthy and qualified individuals.

Statutes affected:
Committee Bill: 9-229, 9-19j, 9-147c
GAE Joint Favorable Substitute: 9-169
File No. 531: 9-169