Lawmakers to consider legislation that would make vote-by-mail and early voting permanent

Massachusetts lawmakers are expected to take action on big election reforms this week.

Legislation would allow same-day voter registration, as well as make no-excuse mail-in voting and expanded early voting permanent election features.

Senate President Karen Spilka said earlier it is time to act in Massachusetts, especially as other states work to restrict voter rights.

"We must show the power of not only protecting [but] expanding voters' access to the ballot box," she said. "It's just not simply enough to protect — we need to expand that access."

The proposed plan would also create new supports for voters with disabilities and require correctional facilities to ensure that inmates eligible to vote can access ballots.