The Senate passed a bill to allow towns and cities to participate in an electronic poll book trial program, but rejected a proposal for New Hampshire to join 38 other states with online voter registration. The votes Thursday followed continued debate on election law changes, with legislators taking measured steps to modernize state statutes. A number of communities, including Manchester, have expressed interest in use of an electronic poll book and devices for voter registration rolls and check-in. The trial program must be compliant with existing law, from voter checklists to delivery of data to the Secretary of State in a way that is compatible with the statewide centralized voter registration database.
Towns and cities participating in the trial program must ensure adequate back-up systems and bear all costs associated with electronic poll books. The programs must meet certification standards established by the state.
State lawmakers are considering a host of other proposed changes in election law this spring, including modifying the definition of “domicile” with the intent that qualified voters have an “intent to stay” in the state when they cast a ballot here.
Preserving the integrity of voting in the first-in-the-nation state is a priority for Republicans and Democrats alike, but the parties disagree on proposed reforms.
Full Article: State Senate passes bill to allow electronic poll book trial program | New Hampshire.