Summary
<p>Earlier this month, we told you about SB 438 and HB 1600, two versions of a bill to codify the data-sharing agreement between the Secretary of State’s office and the DMV to help voters missing documentary proof of certain qualifications register to vote. With the voter’s consent, election officials can use existing state records to verify qualifications like age, citizenship, identity, or domicile—helping voters avoid having to track down documents they’ve already submitted to other state agencies.</p>
<p>This lookup system was reportedly used more than 250 times during March town elections alone. Codifying the system into law is especially important because the current agreement can be withdrawn by either party with just 60 days’ notice, even as New Hampshire heads into the first higher-turnout elections since HB 1569 eliminated sworn affidavits for voters missing certain paperwork in 2024.</p>
<p>We now have good news to share: after some legislative back-and-forth between the House and Senate versions of the bill, the Senate voted to concur with the House version, meaning the bill is now on its way to the Governor’s desk. </p>
<p>Send an email to Governor Ayotte urging her to sign SB 438. ✅</p>
