Elections: registration; online voter registration process; modify. Amends sec. 509ii of 1954 PA 116 (MCL 168.509ii).
Impact
The proposed legislation is expected to significantly impact state laws related to voter registration by requiring that all electronic applications are authenticated through specified identification methods. Applicants will need to provide either the identification number from a valid state-issued ID or a Social Security number to ensure their identity is verified before they can register to vote online. This move towards electronic registration is intended to enhance the integrity of the voter registration process while increasing accessibility for voters across the state.
Summary
Senate Bill 0594, introduced by Senator Moss, amends the election laws in Michigan by establishing a framework for electronic voter registration. This bill directs the Secretary of State to develop and maintain an electronic voter registration interface that allows applicants to submit their voter registration applications online through the state's website. One of the primary goals is to modernize the voter registration process, making it more accessible and efficient for citizens. By providing a digital platform for registration, the bill aims to streamline the workflow associated with collecting and processing voter information.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SB 0594 is generally positive among proponents who view it as a progressive step towards modernization in the electoral process. Supporters assert that simplifying voter registration can lead to increased participation in elections. However, there are concerns regarding the security measures necessary to protect voter data and the potential for disenfranchisement if the online portal complicates registration for those less adept with technology. This juxtaposition highlights the ongoing debate about balancing modernization with accessibility for all voters.
Contention
Notable points of contention regarding the bill include worries about data security and privacy. Critics question the effectiveness of the proposed security features and whether they will sufficiently prevent unauthorized access to personal information. Additionally, there are concerns that relying on electronic registration could disadvantage individuals without access to the necessary technology or knowledge to navigate the online system. These discussions underscore the need for thorough consideration of how to implement such systems without excluding vulnerable populations.
Elections: registration; automatic voter registration; modify. Amends secs. 493a, 500a & 501 of 1954 PA 116 (MCL 168.493a et seq.) & adds sec. 493b. TIE BAR WITH: HB 4569'23
Elections: registration; preregistration to vote at age 16; provide for. Amends secs. 495, 509o, 509q, 509r, 509gg & 516 of 1954 PA 116 (MCL 168.495 et seq.) & adds sec. 496a. TIE BAR WITH: HB 4983'23
Elections: voters; definition of identification for election purposes; expand. Amends sec. 2 of 1954 PA 116 (MCL 168.2). TIE BAR WITH: SB 0459'23, SB 0460'23, SB 0461'23
Elections: voters; definition of identification for election purposes; expand to include current concealed pistol license. Amends sec. 2 of 1954 PA 116 (MCL 168.2).
Traffic control: driver license; option to decline voter registration on a driver license application; clarify. Amends sec. 307 of 1949 PA 300 (MCL 257.307). TIE BAR WITH: HB 4983'23
Elections: other; participation by this state as a member of the Electronic Registration Information Center (ERIC); prohibit. Amends sec. 509o of 1954 PA 116 (MCL 168.509o).
Elections: registration; automatic voter registration; modify. Amends secs. 493a, 500a & 501 of 1954 PA 116 (MCL 168.493a et seq.) & adds sec. 493b. TIE BAR WITH: HB 4569'23
Traffic control: driver license; option to decline voter registration on a driver license application; clarify. Amends sec. 307 of 1949 PA 300 (MCL 257.307). TIE BAR WITH: HB 4983'23
Traffic control: driver license; program to provide driver license and state identification cards to parolees; provide for. Amends sec. 307 of 1949 PA 300 (MCL 257.307). TIE BAR WITH: HB 4192'23, HB 4193'23
Traffic control: violations; penalties for operating a vehicle while sending or receiving a message on an electronic wireless device; enhance. Amends sec. 602b of 1949 PA 300 (MCL 257.602b). TIE BAR WITH: HB 4251'23, HB 4252'23