Title
Voter Identification Bylaw No. 2013-01
Proposed Motions
1. That Bylaw No. 2013-01 receive second reading.
2. That Bylaw No. 2013-01 receive third and final reading.
Body
Administration Recommendation
Administration supports the passing of this bylaw as an enhancement to the security of our elections.
Purpose
Bylaw No. 2013-01 requires second and third readings to finalize the passing of this bylaw. The purpose of the bylaw is to increase the voter identification requirements that are provided in the Local Authorities Election Act (LAEA) by requiring proof of age (in addition to proof of name and current address), and requiring two (rather than one) or more pieces of identification to confirm the voter's name, age, and current address.
Summary
According to the new identification requirements of the LAEA, if a municipality requires proof of age (in addition to verification of name and current address), or wishes to provide for the number and types of identification that are required, a bylaw must be passed. Voter Identification Bylaw No. 2013-01 received first reading on January 15, 2013, and was advertised January 18 and 25, 2013, allowing 60 days for the filing of petitions (as per the Municipal Government Act).
The LAEA requires that a bylaw regarding additional voter identification requirements must be passed no later than six (6) months prior to nomination day of a year in which an election is to be held. Ministerial Order No. L:011/13 was received February 4, 2013, allowing municipalities to pass such a bylaw no later than four (4) months prior to Nomination Day.
Strategic Plan/Policy/Legal/Staff Implications
LAEA section 53 provides the requirements and options for proof of elector eligibility. LAEA section 53.1 provides the requirements for advertising a section 53 bylaw. The advertisement must include the procedure to be followed by anyone wishing to file a petition in respect of the proposed bylaw. The Municipal Government Act sections...
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