The proposed bill amends the Code of Alabama to enhance the qualifications and protections for members of the boards of registrars. Key provisions include a requirement for candidates to undergo a criminal background check, necessitating the submission of fingerprints to the Alabama State Law Enforcement Agency for state and national checks. The bill mandates that the state will cover registrars' salaries during emergencies affecting their working days and allows them to be treated as state employees for relief funds during natural disasters or pandemics. Additionally, registrars can omit certain personal information from the voter registration list. The bill also removes the requirement for the state Comptroller to issue monthly payments to county commissions, ensuring registrars are compensated for holidays and emergency closures, and clarifies that they will receive a mileage allowance comparable to state employees.

Furthermore, the bill introduces amendments regarding the working days of board members, specifying the maximum number of working days per fiscal year and allowing additional session days in certain counties at the discretion of the county commission chair. It clarifies that registrars in specific counties may meet up to five days a week for official duties and removes outdated language regarding the definition of "each year." The bill establishes a centralized, interactive computerized statewide voter registration list managed by the Secretary of State, ensuring secure access for election officials and allowing certain registered voters, such as victims of domestic violence, to request confidentiality for their information. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 17-4-33, 17-3-2, 17-3-5, 17-3-8, 17-4-33
Engrossed: 17-4-33, 17-3-2, 17-3-5, 17-3-8, 17-4-33