This bill establishes a new 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, RSA 654:12 II-a, which outlines the process for verifying citizenship through available databases and allows for the issuance of a voucher to indigent voters who cannot afford the cost of obtaining a birth certificate. If a voter claims indigency and verification efforts are unsuccessful, local officials may provide a voucher to cover the cost of obtaining necessary documentation. The Secretary of State is required to reimburse municipalities for 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 costs associated with these vouchers. The bill also anticipates the need for additional staffing within the Department of State to manage the verification process and administer the voucher program. The effective date for this act is set for July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 654:12