The bill amends Section 17-9.1-7 of the General Laws regarding voter registration at the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). It establishes that the DMV shall identify individuals applying for or renewing a REAL ID driver's license or personal identification document who provide proof of U.S. citizenship and are of sufficient age to register to vote. The DMV is required to transmit the applicant's information, including name, residence address, mailing address, date of birth, and signature, to the statewide central voter registration system within one business day of acceptance. Applicants will receive a notice regarding their voter registration status, which includes information on how to decline registration or update their address. If an applicant does not decline within fourteen days, they will be registered or their registration record will be updated.

The bill also allows other state, local, or educational agencies that collect sufficient information to verify eligibility to implement automatic voter registration procedures similar to those at the DMV. It specifies that the DMV will not offer voter registration opportunities to applicants for driver privilege cards or permits. The provisions of this act will take effect upon passage, and the DMV must certify that its computer system can meet the requirements by June 30, 2027.

Statutes affected:
6423: 17-9.1-7