The bill, SB 438, amends existing laws to enhance access to and security of the statewide centralized voter registration database in New Hampshire. It specifically modifies RSA 654:12, VI to require the secretary of state to collaborate with local clerks to ensure that this database is accessible at all polling places during election days. The bill clarifies that proof of age, citizenship, domicile, or identity provided by voters will meet registration requirements, and emphasizes that a lack of data will not disqualify a voter. Additionally, it amends RSA 654:45 to mandate the secretary of state to maintain the database, ensuring comprehensive voter information and addressing duplicate records, while providing election officials with immediate electronic access.

Moreover, the bill introduces provisions for secure electronic transmission of information to resolve discrepancies in voter registration records and limits access to the database to designated local election officials. It requires annual checks of voter records against the United States Postal Service for address changes starting July 1, 2022, and emphasizes the confidentiality of the voter database, exempting it from public disclosure laws. The bill also includes a new provision in RSA 260:14 allowing the sharing of relevant motor vehicle records with election officials and mandates the secretary of state to solicit input from the department of safety and the department of information technology regarding the sharing of voter information with other states. The bill is set to take effect on July 30, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 654:25
As Amended by the Senate: 654:45
As Amended by the House: 654:12, 654:45, 260:14
Version adopted by both bodies: 654:12, 654:45, 260:14
CHAPTERED FINAL VERSION: 654:12, 654:45, 260:14
SB438 text: 654:25