HB259 Alabama 2016 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Mary MooreRepresentative

Democrat

Session

Regular Session 2016

Title

Voter registration, automatic, authorized

Summary

HB259 would automatically register eligible Alabama voters when they apply for or renew a driver's license or non-driver ID, unless they opt out, with rules to govern the process.

What This Bill Does

It creates an automatic voter registration program by sending electronic records from the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency to the Secretary of State for people who qualify to register. The Secretary of State then notifies the person how to decline registration. If the person does not opt out within 21 days, their record becomes a completed registration, and if they are qualified and not already registered, they are registered and issued a certificate. Registrations cannot be completed within 14 days before an election, and the Secretary of State must adopt rules to implement the program.

Who It Affects

• Individuals who apply for or renew a driver's license or nondriver ID and are eligible to vote will be automatically considered for registration unless they opt out.
• People who meet voter eligibility requirements and are not already registered will be registered if they do not opt out within 21 days.
• Boards of registrars and the Secretary of State are responsible for notifying individuals and processing registrations.

Key Provisions

• Section 1(a): The Secretary of State shall establish a program to receive electronic records from the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency for those who meet voter registration qualifications, including name, age, residence, citizenship, and electronic signature.
• Section 1(b): The Secretary of State must provide the information to the county boards of registrars and notify the person about how to decline registration.
• Section 1(c): If the person does not decline within 21 days, their electronic record and signature become a completed registration application; if qualified and not already registered, they shall be registered and issued a certificate.
• Section 1(d): Boards of registrars may not issue a certificate or add to registration lists until 21 days after notification; no registration within 14 days before any election.
• Section 1(e): The act does not change the authority to determine voter qualification or to maintain and update registration lists.
• Section 1(f): The Secretary of State must adopt implementing rules under the Administrative Procedure Act.
• Section 2: The act becomes effective on the first day of the third month after it passes and is approved.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Voter Registration