This bill authorizes the secretary of state to conduct random audits to verify the citizenship qualifications of registered voters who have submitted a qualified voter affidavit. A new section, RSA 654:45-a, is added to outline the procedures for these audits, which include reviewing state database records and ensuring that the audits are random and statistically sound. The secretary of state is required to publish a public report of the audit findings, and if a voter's citizenship is confirmed, this confirmation will be noted in the statewide voter registration database, exempting that voter from future audits. Additionally, if the audits identify potential non-citizens, this information must be forwarded to the attorney general for further action.

To facilitate these audits, the bill includes provisions for sharing voter data with non-state entities under strict conditions, such as limiting data retention and ensuring data security. The secretary of state is also mandated to permanently destroy any identifiable data related to individuals whose citizenship is confirmed, as well as data related to unresolved citizenship matters once they are resolved. The bill will take effect 60 days after its passage, with an effective date of September 8, 2026.

Statutes affected:
As Amended by the Senate: 654:45-a