Maryland's Democratic-controlled legislature on Wednesday approved a measure to automatically register eligible citizens to vote when they interact with certain state agencies.
If the measure becomes law, Maryland would become the 11th state to adopt automatic voter registration.
Any Marylander who interacts with the state's Motor Vehicle Administration, health-care exchange or social services offices would be signed up to vote unless they decline.
Voting rights advocates say automatic registration can add hundreds of thousands - in some cases millions - of new voters to the rolls, providing ballot access to those who would otherwise have to proactively seek out a voter registration form.
"Creating an automatic registration program that links voting to everyday activities, like getting a driver's license or collecting health benefits ensures greater voter participation which is the essential ingredient for any thriving democracy."
Twenty-five other states are considering automatic voter registration bills introduced either last year or this year, according to the Brennan Center for Justice.
Just last week, Washington Gov. Jay Inslee signed a bill making voter registration in that state automatic.
http://thehill.com/homenews/state-watch/380657-maryland-legislature-passes-automatic-voter-registration
If the measure becomes law, Maryland would become the 11th state to adopt automatic voter registration.
Any Marylander who interacts with the state's Motor Vehicle Administration, health-care exchange or social services offices would be signed up to vote unless they decline.
Voting rights advocates say automatic registration can add hundreds of thousands - in some cases millions - of new voters to the rolls, providing ballot access to those who would otherwise have to proactively seek out a voter registration form.
"Creating an automatic registration program that links voting to everyday activities, like getting a driver's license or collecting health benefits ensures greater voter participation which is the essential ingredient for any thriving democracy."
Twenty-five other states are considering automatic voter registration bills introduced either last year or this year, according to the Brennan Center for Justice.
Just last week, Washington Gov. Jay Inslee signed a bill making voter registration in that state automatic.
http://thehill.com/homenews/state-watch/380657-maryland-legislature-passes-automatic-voter-registration
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