Connecticut Residents Reject Expanded Early-Voting Proposal

HARTFORD, Conn. (CBSNewYork/AP) -- Connecticut residents have rejected a proposed amendment to the state constitution that would have opened the door to more early voting options.

The question on Tuesday's ballot would have given state officials new authority to pursue multiple voting days at the polls and expanded use of absentee ballots. It also would have removed voting restrictions that currently prevent having all voting done by mail or online.

With 92.3 percent of the precincts reporting, 52.5 percent of voters rejected the measure, while 47.5 percent supported it.

Supporters of the proposal said it would have increased voter turnout. Opponents believed it would give too much power to state officials to make significant changes to voting methods.

Thirty-three states offer some form of early voting. Three states allow all voting by mail.

The amendment would have eliminated restrictions on when citizens can vote and who can use absentee ballots.

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