HB1517 Summary

• Establishes electronic voter registration system allowing citizens to register to vote online through a secure system maintained by the Secretary of State, accessible without charge.

• Electronic registration applications may serve for initial registration and changes of name, address, or party affiliation, requiring submission at least 30 days before election with valid driver's license number or last four digits of Social Security number.

• Secretary of State must implement voter registration accuracy measures including comparing deceased voter information from Social Security Administration, verifying address information, cooperating with other states to prevent duplicate registrations, and providing annual reports to General Assembly.

• Amends Arkansas Constitution Amendment 51 to extend mail voter registration form requirements to electronic forms, including bilingual/braille/large print availability, prohibition on notarization requirements, and electronic signature or mark options.

• Becomes effective January 1, 2022, with Secretary of State prohibited from promulgating emergency rules within 180 days of federal elections unless approved by General Assembly or Legislative Council.