The bill amends Section 17-9.1-7 of the General Laws regarding voter registration at the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). It establishes new procedures for automatically registering individuals to vote when they apply for or renew a driver's license or personal identification document. Key provisions include the identification of applicants who demonstrate U.S. citizenship, the electronic transmission of their registration information to the statewide central voter registration system within one business day, and the requirement for the DMV to send notice to applicants regarding their voter registration status.

The notice will inform applicants whether they are registered to vote or if their registration address has been updated, and it will provide information on how to decline registration or update their political party affiliation. If an applicant does not decline within fourteen days, they will be registered or their registration will be updated. The bill also outlines the responsibilities of the DMV in providing voter registration applications and ensuring that applicants can certify their citizenship.

Additionally, the bill expands the potential for automatic voter registration to other state, local, or educational agencies that collect sufficient information to verify eligibility. These agencies may follow similar procedures as the DMV for voter registration, including the use of database matching for citizenship verification. The act will take effect upon passage, and the DMV administrator is required to certify that the motor vehicle licensing system is capable of meeting the new requirements by June 30, 2028. Notably, the bill prohibits offering voter registration opportunities to applicants for driver privilege cards or permits under Chapter 10.4 of Title 31.

Statutes affected:
3044: 17-9.1-7