The bill amends various sections of the Ohio Revised Code to require that electors register as members of a political party to participate in that party's primary elections. It introduces a new section, 3503.071, which determines an elector's political party affiliation based on their most recent voter registration application or the political party whose ballot they last cast. Additionally, the bill mandates that voter registration applications include options for selecting a political party affiliation and provisions for those who do not wish to affiliate with any party. It also repeals sections 3513.192 and 3513.20, which previously governed voter registration and party affiliation, while enhancing the electronic transmission of voter registration updates and establishing responsibilities for designated agencies in administering voter registration programs.

Moreover, the bill establishes a comprehensive framework for managing a statewide voter registration database, which will include essential information such as the elector's name, birth date, residence address, political party affiliation, and voting history. It requires safeguards for the integrity and confidentiality of voter information and mandates the Secretary of State to ensure the database's accuracy through collaboration with state agencies. The bill also updates procedures for voter registration, including allowing electronic submissions and clarifying the voting rights of electors in primary elections. It emphasizes the importance of political party affiliation and streamlines the candidacy process while ensuring compliance with party requirements. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance the efficiency, security, and accessibility of the voter registration and election processes in Ohio.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 3501.01, 3503.09, 3503.10, 3503.11, 3503.14, 3503.15, 3503.151, 3503.152, 3503.153, 3503.16, 3503.19, 3503.20, 3503.23, 3503.28, 3505.181, 3509.02, 3509.04, 3509.07, 3509.08, 3513.041, 3513.05, 3513.07, 3513.18, 3513.19, 3513.191, 3513.257, 3517.012, 3517.013, 3599.12, 3513.192, 3513.20