Lawmakers on Thursday advanced a proposal to require cities with low voter participation to consolidate their elections with the state elections, an effort to bolster civic engagement in some local contests.
The measure is a response to single-digit voter turnout in some city elections. It would require consolidation starting Jan. 1, 2018, in any city with participation of at least 25% below its own average during the last four statewide general elections.
"This is about voters, your constituents, coming out and participating by a greater percentage," Assemblyman Luis Alejo (D-Watsonville), said during a debate in the lower house.