SB223 Alabama 2017 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Paul Bussman

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2017

Title

Voter Registration lists, process to update current address information revised based on information supplied by United States Postal Service, Sec. 17-4-30 am'd.

Summary

SB223 would update how Alabama handles voter address updates by using USPS change-of-address data and requires notices and possible removal for nonresponse or nonvoting.

What This Bill Does

It requires boards of registrars to use USPS change-of-address information to update a voter's address, whether the move stays within the same jurisdiction, moves to a different jurisdiction, or moves outside Alabama. It mandates mailing a nonforwardable notice to all registered voters and, if returned, a 90-day forwardable notice asking the voter to verify or correct their address. If a voter does not respond or does not vote within the specified period, their name can be removed from the eligible voter list, and an inactive/suspense file is created to track such cases; the secretary of state can promulgate rules and may act as an agent. The act would take effect immediately upon governor approval.

Who It Affects

• Registered voters in Alabama: their addresses may be updated using USPS data and they may receive notices; failure to respond or to vote could lead to removal from the voter list.
• Boards of Registrars and the Secretary of State: responsible for updating records, sending required notices, maintaining the suspense/inactive file, and enforcing the changes.

Key Provisions

• Use USPS change-of-address information to update voter registration addresses; address changes within the same board, to a different board, or outside Alabama trigger updates and notices.
• Mail a nonforwardable notice to all registered voters; if returned, send a forwardable notice within 90 days asking the voter to verify or correct their address information.
• Notices explain required actions and consequences; if the voter does not respond or does not vote during the specified period, their name may be removed from the eligible voter list, with removal published as required.
• Create and maintain a suspense/inactive file with voter details; if the voter does not vote in the next two federal elections after being placed in suspense, the voter’s name may be removed; the Secretary of State will promulgate rules and may act as an agent; the act becomes effective immediately upon governor approval.

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

Subjects

Elections