Michigan House Bill HB4744

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/14/23
• Refer: 6/14/23

Caption

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).

Impact

In terms of legislative impact, HB4744 introduces several critical mechanisms for ensuring the qualified voter file remains current. For example, it requires the adherence to application signing protocols for voter registration, preventing unauthorized address changes from being made in the file. Furthermore, it establishes a monthly process for removing deceased individuals from the voter registration lists by utilizing information from the Social Security Administration’s death master file. This effort is expected to greatly reduce inaccuracies in voter registrations and therefore is likely to be viewed favorably by proponents of election security.

Summary

House Bill 4744 aims to amend the Michigan election law, specifically focusing on the management of a statewide qualified voter file to streamline voter registration processes. The bill mandates the Secretary of State to oversee the establishment and maintenance of this file, which will serve as the official record for all elections in Michigan. This initiative intends to enhance the accuracy of voter rolls and reduce instances of erroneous registrations, thus promoting election integrity in the state. Additionally, it specifies that any individual appearing to vote must be listed in the qualified voter file to be recognized as a registered voter in that jurisdiction.

Contention

However, there are notable points of contention surrounding the bill. One of the more controversial provisions is the stipulation that Michigan will withdraw from participation in the Electronic Registration Information Center (ERIC), which is viewed by some lawmakers and advocacy groups as a crucial tool for maintaining the integrity and accuracy of voter registration. Critics of this withdrawal argue that it could hinder collaborative election security efforts among states, particularly in verifying registration details. They believe that resources should be allocated towards enhancing, not reducing, existing programs aimed at fostering secure electoral processes.