SB71 Alabama 2016 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Linda Coleman-MadisonSenator

Democrat

Session

Regular Session 2016

Title

Voter registration, automatic, authorized

Summary

The bill would automatically register eligible voters when they apply for or renew a driver’s license or nondriver ID, and automatically update registration when their address changes.

What This Bill Does

It sets up a program where electronic records from license issuance/renewal are used to register eligible people to vote. If someone is qualified and not already registered, the local board of registrars would register them and issue a registration certificate, except not during the 14 days before an election. If a person changes their address on their license, the new address is sent to the registrar and a new certificate can be issued. The bill does not change how a person’s eligibility is determined or how registration lists are maintained. It becomes law on the first day of the third month after approval.

Who It Affects

• Eligible Alabama residents who apply for or renew a driver’s license or nondriver ID would be automatically registered to vote if they are qualified and not already registered
• County boards of registrars and state agencies (Secretary of State and Alabama Law Enforcement Agency) responsible for implementing the automatic registration and issuing registration certificates

Key Provisions

• Creates an automatic voter registration program using electronic records from the issuance/renewal of driver’s licenses and nondriver IDs
• Upon verification of eligibility, the county board of registrars automatically registers the person and issues a certificate of registration, with a 14-day election blackout period
• If the registrant changes their address on their license, the new address is sent to the registrar and a new certificate can be issued
• Maintains existing authority to determine eligibility and to maintain/update registration lists, and does not alter those processes
• Effective date is the first day of the third month after the bill becomes law

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