Hernandez Expands Vote by Mail During COVID-19 Pandemic

AURORA, Ill. – To ensure that all voters can make their voices heard in the upcoming November election while protecting themselves from the spread of COVID-19, state rep. Barbara Hernandez, D-Aurora, helped pass a measure to expand mail-in ballot programs and allow election authorities to provide for curbside voting and special senior hours.

“As we adapt to the changes this pandemic has made in nearly every aspect of our lives, we must make sure that voters across the state can safely exercise their right to vote,” said Hernandez.  “By taking precautions to allow for curbside voting, senior hours and expanding vote by mail programs, we can make sure that Illinois residents can cast their ballots without putting their health or the health of others at risk.”

Hernandez supported Senate Bill 1863 which broadens vote by mail programs for the upcoming November election by automatically sending applications to voters who participated in either the 2018 general election, 2019 consolidated election or 2020 primary election. Additionally, this measure provides local election officers the flexibility to create additional options, including curbside voting, designated special voting hours for seniors and increases the ability of young people to work as election judges in place of higher risk retirees who often fill those roles.

“There is still a lot of uncertainty in our future, but ensuring access to alternative voting options can help ensure residents remain safe and healthy,” said Hernandez. “Implementing this legislation is an important step in protecting our community and preventing the spread of COVID-19.”

For more information, please contact Hernandez’s constituent services office at RepBarbaraHernandez@gmail.com.

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