Massachusetts residents could have their voter registration information automatically updated whenever they renew their drivers’ licenses or interact with other state agencies. A bill working its way through Beacon Hill would help ensure that more of the state’s nearly 700,000 eligible citizens who are not registered to vote are able to cast ballots on Election Day. “Massachusetts can lead the way toward giving all citizens a voice in their government,” said Pam Wilmot, executive director of Common Cause Massachusetts, a backer of the bill, which was the subject of a public hearing Thursday.
The bill instructs the state secretary to create a system that automatically updates a voter’s registration information whenever that voter alerts one of several state agencies of a change of address or other changes related to their voter information.
The agencies include the department of housing and community development, the department of revenue, the department of higher education, and all public institutions of higher education. The bill would also allow a voter to waive those updates if they want.
Supporters say that they have 102 co-sponsors, including 80 in the 160-member House and 22 in the 40-member Senate.
Full Article: Massachusetts lawmakers weigh automatic voter registration – Lowell Sun Online.