This bill amends Nebraska's election laws to improve voter registration and voting procedures. Key provisions include the establishment of a free access system for voters who cast provisional ballots, enabling them to verify whether their vote was counted and understand the reasons if it was not. The Secretary of State is also required to create a dedicated website for voter identification requirements and to conduct a public awareness campaign. Additionally, the bill mandates that voter registration applications be designed to facilitate information transmission to election officials while allowing applicants to indicate their desire not to register. It also repeals section 32-309, which is considered obsolete, and harmonizes various provisions related to voter registration and verification through the Department of Motor Vehicles.

Moreover, the bill clarifies the conditions under which provisional ballots are counted, specifying that they will be counted if the voter is properly registered and meets residency and voting criteria. It introduces provisions to allow minor errors on registration applications without disqualifying provisional ballots, provided essential eligibility information is intact. The application process for obtaining a commercial learner's permit or commercial driver's license is also modified, requiring specific personal information and proof of identity, including a "Permanent Resident Card." The bill allows nondomiciled applicants to apply for a CLP or CDL without proof of residence and removes the voter registration question from the application, replacing it with inquiries about veteran status and organ donation preferences. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 32-309, 32-307, 32-308, 32-312, 32-315, 32-1002, 32-1506, 60-484