The bill seeks to enhance voter registration efficiency by leveraging data from the DOT, thus minimizing barriers for eligible elector registration. The commission is mandated to maintain confidentiality over the data obtained, which aims to protect the personal information of individuals while utilizing it for registration purposes. By obligating the commission to maintain active communication with electors whose statuses change, the bill emphasizes an adaptive approach to managing the registration list, potentially reducing the number of eligible voters who are disenfranchised due to unclear status or bureaucratic hurdles.
Summary
Assembly Bill 605 proposes a system of automatic voter registration in Wisconsin, requiring the Elections Commission to take all feasible measures to ensure eligible voters are registered by July 1, 2027. The bill directs the commission to collaborate with the Department of Transportation (DOT) to utilize personal information to facilitate the registration process. This information transfer aims to streamline the registration and maintain an up-to-date voter list, ensuring that individuals remain registered as long as they meet the eligibility criteria established by state law.
Contention
While the bill has support for its intention to increase voter registration, it may face contention over privacy concerns associated with the data sharing between the DOT and the Elections Commission. Critics could argue that even with confidentiality measures in place, the automatic transfer of personal information may be perceived as an invasion of privacy for some potential voters. Furthermore, the necessity for individuals to opt out of data sharing might lead to confusion or unintentional exclusions if individuals are not fully aware of their rights under this change. The debate will likely center on balancing the mission to increase voter participation with the imperative of protecting individual privacy rights.
Automatic voter registration, deceptive election practices, voter intimidation and suppression, voter rights, polling place posting and language requirements, election manual requirements, granting rule-making authority, and providing a penalty. (FE)
Automatic voter registration, deceptive election practices, voter intimidation and suppression, voter rights, polling place posting and language requirements, election manual requirements, granting rule-making authority, and providing a penalty. (FE)
Maintenance of the voter registration list, training of municipal clerks, data sharing agreements, pre-election procedures, lines at the polls on election day, and granting rule-making authority. (FE)
"Medicaid Transportation Brokerage Program Oversight and Accountability Act"; establishes vehicle, staffing, and performance standards, and review and reporting requirements for non-emergency medical transport provided under State's non-emergency medical transportation brokerage program.
"Medicaid Transportation Brokerage Program Oversight and Accountability Act"; establishes vehicle, staffing, and performance standards, and review and reporting requirements for non-emergency medical transport provided under Medicaid transportation brokerage program.