HB 1528

Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research	BILL ANALYSIS

State Government & Tribal Affairs Committee

HB 1528

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Brief Description: Providing for electronic voter registration.

Sponsors: Representatives Hunt, Chandler, Green, Kretz, Ormsby, Armstrong, Miloscia, Appleton, Kenney, Goodman and Moeller; by request of Secretary of State.

Brief Summary of Bill

Provides for electronic voter registration through the Secretary of State's website for individuals who have a valid Washington driver's license or state identification card.

Electronic voter registration applicants must affirmatively assent to use of his or her signature.

Electronic voter registration is considered registration by mail.

For each electronic registration, the Secretary of State must obtain a digital copy of the applicant's driver's license or state identification card signature.

Hearing Date: 1/31/07

Staff: Colleen Kerr (786-7168).

Background:

In Washington, individuals may register to vote either by mail or in person at the county auditor's office. If the person has never registered to vote in the state before, or has moved to a new county, he or she must fill out a voter registration form. If a person has moved within county, he or she can transfer the voter registration by filling out the voter registration form or by mailing, emailing, or calling the county auditor. Individuals who do not have a Washington driver's license or a state identification card must provide an alternate form of identification:

valid photo ID;
valid tribal ID of a federally recognized Indian tribe in Washington;
copy of a current utility bill;
current bank statement ;
copy of a current government check;
copy of a current paycheck; or
a government document that shows both your name and address.

Summary of Bill:

The Secretary of State will provide electronic voter registration via the internet for individuals who have a valid Washington driver's license or state identification card. For each electronic registration, the Secretary of State must obtain a digital copy of the applicant's driver's license or state identification card signature. Electronic voter registration applicants must affirmatively assent to use of his or her signature from the Department of Licensing for verification of identity purposes.

Electronic voter registration is considered registration by mail.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect on January 1, 2008.