CONTACT: Henry Klementowicz, ACLU-NH Staff Attorney, henry@aclu-nh.org, (603) 333-2201
CONCORD, NH – On October 22, 2018, Superior Court Judge Kenneth C. Brown temporarily struck down SB 3, finding that the plaintiffs were likely to succeed on their claims that the law unconstitutionally burdens the right to vote. The American Civil Liberties Union of New Hampshire (“ACLU-NH”) supported this lawsuit and has opposed SB3 since its inception.
The Superior Court found that the new forms imposed by SB 3 were confusing and lengthy and could potentially contribute to significantly longer lines at some polling places. The Court also found that some populations, such as the homeless, would be disproportionately burdened by the law. Finally, the Court found that the law was not supported by the State’s claimed interests of combatting voter fraud or increasing voter confidence.
ACLU-NH Staff Attorney Henry Klementowicz: “Today is a big victory for voters in New Hampshire. The ACLU-NH is committed to ensuring that all eligible voters can cast their ballots without undue burden. The Court rightfully found that SB3 does nothing to make our elections more secure while at the same time throwing up difficult roadblocks to voting for some of the most disadvantaged populations. The ACLU-NH has opposed SB3 since its inception, and we are pleased that the Superior Court ruled this law cannot be enforced going forward.”