Springfield—Eligible voters throughout the state will now be automatically registered to vote under legislation advanced today with the full support of the Senate Black Caucus Chairman Emil Jones III (D-Chicago.

Senate Bill 250, sponsored by State Senator Andy Manar (D-Bunker Hill), would allow for the Secretary of State’s office and similar state agencies to submit eligible voters’ information to the State Board of Elections when they visit their facilities for services.

Currently 42.2 percent of eligible, voting-age black citizens in Illinois aren’t registered to vote. Overall, more than 2 million Illinoisans who are eligible to vote aren’t registered. The measure now moves to the Illinois House of Representatives, where it will be debated.

“With the passing of this legislation, many eligible voters will now have the opportunity to exercise their right to vote. This is a major step forward,” Jones said.

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