This bill establishes a new procedure for verifying the citizenship of voters who lack documentary proof of citizenship. It amends RSA 654:12 by adding a new paragraph (II-a) that allows local election officials and the secretary of state to confirm a voter's citizenship through available databases if the voter requests assistance. If verification is successful, the voter's registration will be marked as "U.S. citizenship verified." Additionally, if a voter claims indigency and cannot provide documentation, the local clerk or secretary of state may issue a voucher to cover the cost of obtaining a birth certificate or equivalent proof of citizenship, with the responsibility placed on the voter to obtain the necessary documentation by election day.

The bill also includes an appropriation of $50,000 to the secretary of state for the reimbursement of municipalities for the costs associated with these vouchers. This funding is intended to support local election officials in assisting indigent voters in meeting citizenship requirements for voting. The act will take effect 60 days after its passage, which is set for July 17, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 654:12
As Amended by the House: 654:12
Version adopted by both bodies: 654:12
CHAPTERED FINAL VERSION: 654:12