If this bill were to become law, it would amend current statutes regarding voter registration in Arizona by removing the eligibility for certain U.S. citizens who have never resided in the United States to register and vote using the federal write-in early ballot. Specifically, the bill would delete the provisions that allow these individuals to register if their parent is a U.S. citizen registered to vote in Arizona. This change would affect the ability of overseas citizens, particularly children of U.S. servicemembers born abroad, to participate in elections in Arizona.

Additionally, the bill would make technical and conforming changes to existing language in the statutes, including updates to the references of the federal law governing overseas voting. The current provisions that allow registration for overseas voters and the acceptance of federal postcard applications would remain intact, but the specific eligibility criteria for those who have never resided in the U.S. would be significantly restricted. Overall, the bill aims to tighten voter registration requirements for a specific group of U.S. citizens.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 16-103, 16-593, 99-410, 108-375, 16-543.02
Senate Engrossed Version: 16-103, 16-593, 99-410, 108-375, 16-543.02