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. Specifically, it introduces a new paragraph to RSA 654:12, which allows individuals claiming to be qualified to vote to request citizenship verification through the Secretary of State's office. If verification is successful, local officials will note this on the voter registration application. If verification fails 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 includes an appropriation of $50,000 to the Secretary of State for the biennium ending June 30, 2027, to facilitate the reimbursement of local municipalities for voucher costs. 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 estimated fiscal impact includes expenditures of $114,000 in FY 2026 and FY 2027, with a gradual increase to $117,000 in FY 2028, primarily for staffing and operational costs.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 654:12
As Amended by the House: 654:12