Assemblyman Roger Hernandez to Introduce Bill to Consolidate California Elections

Assemblyman Roger Hernández, whose district includes a portion of Monrovia, announced plans Friday to introduce legislation that would require that all California muncipal elections take place at the same time as the state primary and general elections.

The effort aims to "streamline California's election system and strengthen civic engagement during elections," said Hernández, D-West Covina, in a news release.  

“Voter convenience and participation is at the heart of this proposed bill.  In California, we have seen a lower voter participation trend during election seasons," Hernandez said in a statement.

"The frequency of elections year after year wastes taxpayer dollars and can cause voter fatigue.  By including all municipal elections on the same ballot as state and federal elections, communities would see an increase in voter turnout and a decrease in the time and labor of conducting multiple elections.  This bill would improve California’s elections system by gaining efficiencies, costs-savings, and promoting uniformity in the administration of the system.”

Hernandez cited an October report from the Greelining Institute that found that voter turnout tended to be higher for local issues at the end of an even-year ballot than those on under consideration in the off years.

The report also found that off-year municipal elections in the state equal higher per-vote costs.  He also cited a similar "Journal of Politics" study that found that lower turnout for Latino and Asian American voters results in "less equitable racial and ethnic representation" on city councils and for mayors.

“As a minority majority state, the issue of consolidated elections is particularly important in California," Hernández said.  "A skewed electorate due to low voter turnout undermines the integrity of our democracy and the chance for all communities to be fairly represented.”       

Hernández serves the cities of Azusa, Baldwin Park, Bradbury, City of Industry, Covina, El Monte, Glendora, Irwindale, Monrovia, West Covina and the unincorporated communities of: Bassett, Charter Oak, East Arcadia, Ramona, Royal Oaks and Valinda.