The bill HB 385-FN aims to reform the voter registration process in New Hampshire by reestablishing exceptions to the identification requirements for voters. It repeals and reenacts RSA 654:12, which outlines voter registration qualifications, mandating that applicants provide proof of citizenship, age, and domicile. Acceptable forms of proof for citizenship include birth certificates, passports, naturalization papers, or a qualified voter affidavit. The bill allows individuals to register without the required documentation by providing a sworn statement on the voter registration form. Additionally, it modifies domicile proof requirements, permitting various forms of identification for those registering more than 30 days before an election and allowing sworn statements for those registering within 30 days or on election day.

The bill also introduces a centralized voter registration database to verify applicants' previous registrations and mandates that first-time registrants who do not present photo ID receive identity verification letters. It outlines the types of documents that can serve as presumptive evidence of domicile and identity, including New Hampshire driver's licenses and government-issued photo IDs. Furthermore, it establishes a process for challenging a voter's qualifications, requiring signed affidavits detailing the grounds for the challenge. The bill includes provisions for voters without valid photo identification to execute a challenged voter affidavit and cast an affidavit ballot, while also allowing for religious exemptions from the photograph requirement. Overall, HB 385-FN seeks to enhance the integrity of the voter registration process while ensuring accessibility for eligible voters.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 659:13, 5:6-d