Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 24RS-2878, introduced by Senator Barrow, establishes the Task Force on Election Cost Efficiency and Alignment in Louisiana. This task force aims to study and propose mechanisms to enhance voter participation, addressing the significant costs associated with conducting elections in the state, which are projected to reach between $11.7 million and $19.7 million for closed party primary elections in 2026. The resolution highlights the concerning trend of declining voter turnout in Louisiana, with recent elections showing participation rates as low as twenty-five percent statewide. The task force will explore strategies such as election consolidation, which has been shown to increase voter engagement and reduce costs.

The task force will consist of various representatives, including members from legislative committees, civic organizations, and associations related to voting and local governance. Appointments to the task force must be submitted by July 1, 2024, with the first meeting scheduled for no later than August 1, 2024. The task force is tasked with reviewing factors contributing to low voter participation and developing recommendations to improve engagement, which will be reported to the legislature and made publicly available before the 2025 Regular Session.