Yingling Supports Legislation to Increase Voting Safety during Pandemic

ROUND LAKE BEACH, Ill. – In response to the COVID-19 pandemic limiting residents’ ability to go into public spaces, state Rep. Sam Yingling, D-Grayslake, fought to expand safe voting options for the Nov. 3 election.

“The ability to vote is a critical component of our government, and cannot be impeded by this pandemic,” said Yingling. “Those who are uncomfortable or unable to participate in traditional, in-person voting this year must have a variety of options to limit or eliminate the in-person interactions required to vote.”

Yingling voted in favor of Senate Bill 1863, which would provide residents with additional options to vote, including an expanded vote-by-mail program, as well as new initiatives such as “senior-only” hours and curbside voting. The legislation also would allow election authorities to increase early voting hours.

During the 2020 primary election held on March 17, voter turnout in Illinois was the third-lowest in the past 40 years for a presidential primary, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. The expansion of voting options is part of the effort to ensure residents can safely vote in November.

“No one should miss voting because they are uncomfortable being in a public space due to the current pandemic,” Yingling said. “Everyone should have the ability to have their voices heard on Election Day, and I will continue fighting to help residents safely and responsibly vote this November.”