The bill amends Section 17-9.1-7 of the General Laws in Chapter 17-9.1, "Registration of Voters," to improve the voter registration process at the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in Rhode Island. It mandates that individuals applying for or renewing a driver's license or personal identification document must be registered to vote if eligible. The DMV will electronically transmit the information of applicants who provide proof of U.S. citizenship and are of voting age to the statewide central voter registration system within one business day. Additionally, applicants will receive a notice regarding their voter registration status, including instructions on how to decline registration or update their address. The bill also modifies existing procedures to ensure that all applicants are offered a voter registration application simultaneously with their DMV application.

Key changes include the deletion of the term "decline" in favor of "certify their United States citizenship" to register to vote, while also ensuring the privacy of individuals who choose not to register is protected. The bill allows other state, local, or educational agencies that collect eligibility documents to implement similar automatic voter registration procedures as the DMV. It specifies that the DMV will not offer voter registration opportunities to applicants for driver privilege cards or permits. The provisions will take effect 30 days after the DMV certifies its computer system can meet the new requirements, with a certification deadline set for June 30, 2027. Overall, the bill aims to streamline the voter registration process while ensuring compliance with citizenship verification.

Statutes affected:
6423: 17-9.1-7