During Saturday's Wilson County Democratic party convention, Farmer-Butterfield touted a bill before the N.C. General Assembly that would allow same day registration during the early voting period, but not on Election Day itself.

The early voting period extends from 19 days to three days before Election Day. The proposal requires new registrants to show identification, complete a registration application, swear under penalty of a felony that the address given is current and that they are a U.S. citizen, and then vote with a retrievable ballot.

Verification of the information must begin within two business days. The process includes computerized checks for matches in databases of the State Board of Elections, Division of Motor Vehicles, and Social Security Administration, along with a non-forwarding mailing to the address.

The bill hasn't had an easy time getting through the House. As amendments were added to the bill, it failed several attempts to pass that chamber.

Finally though, after tinkering with the language, the House passed the bill and sent it to the Senate, where it now sits in committee.

Current law says a potential voter must register to vote 25 days before an election.

Farmer-Butterfield, a Wilson Democrat, said this plan would be a positive step in increasing voter participation.

"This will allow those who want to vote, but haven't taken the time to register, an extra chance to participate and let their voice be heard," Farmer-Butterfield said.

Gary Bartlett, executive director of the N.C. Board of Elections said the legislation would allow for the preservation of the "integrity and security" of elections.