Changes are now in effect that will make it easier for Saskatchewan people to vote in future provincial elections. The Election Amendment Act, 2014 was proclaimed today.
“Everyone in Saskatchewan should have the same opportunity to cast a ballot,” Justice Minister and Attorney General Gordon Wyant said. “The improvements that go into effect will increase voter access, especially for those people who face personal obstacles when it comes to participating in the electoral process.”
The amendments were developed in consultation with Elections Saskatchewan and the Official Opposition and were passed in the spring.
“Changes reflected in the Act - including 11 recommendations put forward by my office - are the result of a genuinely collaborative process,” Saskatchewan’s Chief Electoral Officer and head of Elections Saskatchewan Dr. Michael Boda said. “We are pleased to have worked closely with both government and opposition members to further reduce barriers for all voters in the province.”
The amendments include new home-bound voting provisions that allow voters with a disability to have election officials come to their home to take their vote.
Saskatchewan is now the first jurisdiction in Canada to provide special residence recognition to voters serving in the Canadian Armed Forces. Active members from this province will retain their residency while serving elsewhere. Members coming to the province to serve here will immediately be able to vote in provincial elections.
The new Act will also establish a permanent voter registry and remove the requirement for door-to-door enumeration. It will also remove restrictions on who can vote at advance polls.
