The impact of HB3653 on state laws is significant as it aims to enhance the integrity of the voting process by ensuring that the names of deceased individuals are removed from the voter registration lists efficiently. This amendment aligns the procedures in the Election Code with modern electronic systems for death registrations, potentially reducing the risks of unauthorized voting and ensuring that electoral lists are up-to-date and reliable.
Summary
House Bill 3653 proposes amendments to the Election Code in Illinois that mandate the county clerk of the county where a decedent last resided to issue certifications of death records and use an electronic reporting system for death registrations. This change is intended to streamline the process of maintaining accurate voter registration records by ensuring that deceased individuals are promptly removed from the electoral rolls. The bill replaces the permissive 'may' with a mandatory 'shall,' thereby establishing this procedure as a requirement.
Contention
While the bill intends to improve voter registration processes, some may raise concerns regarding the reliance on electronic systems, especially regarding data privacy and security. There could also be concerns from local clerks about the implementation and operational aspects of the electronic reporting system, including the potential administrative burden and the need for training on new systems. The legislation may face scrutiny over the implications for local governance and the handling of sensitive information regarding deceased individuals.