Bill > SB397

This bill, titled "Online voter registration," aims to modernize voter registration in California by establishing a user-friendly, secure, and accessible online system. It amends Section 2196 of the Elections Code to allow eligible citizens with a valid California driver's license or state identification card to submit their voter registration affidavit electronically through the Secretary of State's website. This system will verify the applicant's identity by cross-referencing information with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), including their signature, date of birth, and the last four digits of their social security number, ensuring accuracy and preventing fraud. The bill also mandates that the DMV utilize this electronic system to fulfill its responsibilities as a voter registration agency under the federal National Voter Registration Act of 1993. If an applicant cannot provide the necessary electronic information, they will still be able to complete the affidavit online, print it, and submit it by mail or in person. The implementation of this online system is contingent on the state having a compliant statewide voter registration database or the Secretary of State certifying that necessary federal funding and infrastructure are in place, with exemptions from certain technology procurement rules to expedite the process.