The bill introduced by Representative Upchurch seeks to establish an automatic voter registration system in Ohio by amending various sections of the Revised Code. A key feature of the bill is the addition of a new section, 3503.11, which requires the Bureau of Motor Vehicles and the Department of Medicaid to provide daily electronic records to the Secretary of State for individuals eligible to register to vote. This system aims to simplify the voter registration process by automatically registering eligible individuals and updating their information as needed. The bill also outlines procedures for removing ineligible voters from the registration database and restoring registrations for those improperly removed.
In addition to the new provisions, the bill includes several deletions and insertions to enhance the voter registration framework. It removes previous requirements for updating voter registration through the registrar of motor vehicles, emphasizing the automatic registration system instead. The bill mandates that individuals provide specific personal information for registration and outlines procedures for individuals who change their residence or name. It also introduces measures for registered electors unable to vote in person due to illness or disability, and it establishes clear guidelines for handling provisional ballots. Overall, the legislation aims to improve voter access, maintain accurate registration records, and ensure compliance with federal laws while enhancing the integrity of the voting process.
Statutes affected: As Introduced: 3501.05, 3503.09, 3503.12, 3503.13, 3503.16, 3503.19, 3503.21, 3503.28, 3503.30, 3503.33, 3505.181, 3505.183, 3599.11, 3599.18, 4506.07, 4507.06, 4507.51, 3503.11