This bill establishes a procedure for local election officials and the Secretary of State to verify the citizenship of voters who lack documentary proof of citizenship. It introduces a new paragraph to RSA 654:12, which allows election officials to confirm a voter's citizenship status through various databases if the individual requests assistance. If verification is unsuccessful and the individual claims indigency, the city or town clerk or Secretary of State may provide a voucher to cover the cost of obtaining a birth certificate or equivalent documentation. The Secretary of State is required to reimburse municipalities for the costs associated with these vouchers.

Additionally, the bill appropriates $25,000 for the fiscal years ending June 30, 2026, and June 30, 2027, to support the reimbursement of local municipalities for the voucher program. The bill also anticipates the need for an additional staff member within the Department of State to manage the verification process and administer the voucher program. The effective date of the act is set for July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 654:12