The bill amends Section 17-9.1-7 of the General Laws to streamline voter registration at the DMV. It requires that eligible individuals applying for a driver's license, renewal, or ID document be automatically registered to vote or have their voting address updated, unless they decline within 14 days. The DMV must transmit the applicant's information to the statewide voter registration system by the next business day. The bill includes new procedures for identifying applicants who can register to vote based on provided identification documents. It also ensures confidentiality of the information and provides for the DMV to work with the Secretary of State to offer appropriate voter registration notices and instructions.

The bill introduces changes to the current law, including the requirement for the DMV to use electronic means to transmit voter registration information quickly and the presumption of registration from the date of acceptance by the DMV. It prohibits the DMV from transmitting voter registration information for applicants who do not certify U.S. citizenship or provide non-citizen identification. The bill extends automatic voter registration procedures to other agencies that collect eligibility documents, with citizenship verification options. It specifies that the DMV shall not offer voter registration to applicants for a driver privilege card or permit. The bill will be effective thirty days after the DMV administrator certifies the system's capability to meet the act's requirements and is effective immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
7393: 17-9.1-7