Introduced by Rep. Ralph S. Demapan, Covenant-Saipan, House Bill 17-66 will amend the local election law so it complies with federal standards.
The measure also allows registered voters to cast their ballots 10 days prior to election day.
Fitial voted the bill because of his concerns regarding the early voting period.
In an interview yesterday, Senate President Paul A. Manglona, Ind.-Rota, said the Senate “has no choice but to act likewise” because of the urgency.
The CNMI will hold its congressional delegate election this November which will also allow voters to ratify or reject three proposed constitutional amendments.
Both chambers have agreed to override the veto right away, Manglona said.
The commonwealth elections law must be in compliance with the federal statutes, he added.
But Manglona said the Legislature will also address the governor’s concerns in a separate bill.
“Right now, we need to act on it but we will introduce amendments later,” he added.
