Introduced on April 5, the Bill is intended to provide greater flexibility to enable local electoral arrangements to adapt to changing circumstances. Its main provision is to support the conduct of “trials of novel voting methods”, such as on-line voting. Completed first reading on May 9 with all parties in agreement and sent to the Justice Committee for consideration. Report back extended from Nov 9 to Dec 8. Reported back on Dec 12 with minor changes including new powers to disallow elections. National expressed ongoing concern about the risks of on-line voting. Second reading debate completed on March 12 with all parties in agreement and committee stage on March 13. Third reading completed on April 2 all parties in favour.  Local Electoral Matters Bill