Voting, automatic voter registration, process established
Impact
This legislation is expected to positively influence voter registration rates in Alabama by reducing bureaucratic barriers. By integrating voter registration with common transactions like obtaining a driver license, the bill facilitates a more efficient way for residents to ensure they are registered and eligible to vote. The Alabama State Law Enforcement Agency and the Secretary of State are empowered to adopt rules to assist in the implementation of this process, potentially leading to better management of voter registration data and faster updates to voter rolls.
Summary
House Bill 257 establishes a process for automatic voter registration in Alabama, linking it to the issuance, updating, or renewal of driver licenses and non-driver identification cards. Under this bill, individuals applying for or renewing these forms of identification will automatically be registered to vote unless they opt out of this process. The bill aims to streamline the voter registration process and increase participation by making it easier for residents to register as they update their ID information.
Contention
While the bill is seen as a progressive step toward increasing voter registration, it may face opposition from individuals and groups concerned about the information sharing between state agencies. Some may argue that the bill could lead to privacy issues or misuse of personal data. Additionally, the opt-out requirement might not be fully understood by all applicants, leading to unintended registrations. As discussions around voter registration processes continue, HB257 represents a significant shift in Alabama's approach to voter participation.
Voting, statewide voter registration database, identifying voter address changes, Electronic Registration Information Center removed as verification database; Secretary of State authorized to update lists using other databases
Voting, absentee voting, disabled, blind, or voters unable to read may designate individual to deliver voter's absentee ballot application and absentee ballot to absentee election manager
Elections; Alabama Voting Rights Act Commission established to prevent discrimination in voting; duties and membership provided; Secretary of State required to establish database on election administration
Elections; Alabama Voting Rights Act Commission established to prevent discrimination in voting; duties and membership provided; Secretary of State required to establish database on election administration
Crimes and offenses, crimes of concealing an illegal alien and human smuggling established, process for determining if a detainee is an illegal alien established
Absentee voting; to allow a disabled voter to designate an individual to deliver the voter's application for an absentee ballot to the absentee election manager; to allow a disabled voter to designate an individual to deliver the voter's absentee ballot to the absentee election manager.
Absentee voting; to allow a voter who is disabled, blind, or unable to read to designate an individual to deliver the voter's application for an absentee ballot and absentee ballot to the absentee election manager
Reforms the organizational structure for the Department of Transportation and Development including its duties, powers, and responsibilities of officers and employees (EN INCREASE SD EX See Note)