The bill introduces automatic voter registration for members of federally recognized Indian tribes in Washington State. It establishes a new definition of "Tribe" and authorizes the Secretary of State to enter into state-tribal compacts to facilitate this process. The Secretary is required to create an application and approval process for these compacts within six months of July 1, 2025, and must convene government-to-government meetings to discuss resolutions submitted by tribal governing bodies. The bill also mandates that once a compact is executed, the Secretary of State must process voter registration information for tribe members through an automated system, provided that the applicants meet specific registration requirements.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws regarding voter registration to include provisions for automatic registration under the new section. It specifies that applications are considered complete only if they contain the necessary information, and it outlines the responsibilities of auditors in processing these applications, including sending acknowledgment notices and handling incomplete applications. The bill also clarifies the treatment of individuals who may be ineligible to vote but are registered under the new provisions, ensuring that their registration does not imply a claim to citizenship unless they knowingly violate voting laws.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 29A.08.110, 29A.08.370