VT S0098

Expands automatic voter registration to include applications for Reach Ahead services (including SNAP benefits), with an opt-out option, and requires six state agencies to report by November 15, 2025 on opportunities to integrate voter registration into their application systems

Allows individuals 16 years of age or older to preregister to vote in Vermont, though they cannot cast a ballot until turning 18 (or 17-year-olds may vote in primaries if they will be 18 by the general election)

Establishes penalties for delinquent campaign finance filings: $10.00 per day after a five-business-day cure period, with a maximum penalty of $1,000.00 per filing; Secretary of State may reduce or waive penalties for good cause

Creates the Democracy Certificate Program to replace existing public campaign financing, issuing four $25.00 certificates per opted-in voter to assign to State office candidates; participating candidates face campaign fund limits of $1,000,000 for Governor and $500,000 for other statewide offices, plus a $2,000 individual contribution cap

Requires employers to provide up to four hours of protected unpaid leave for employees to vote in person on election days, with 24 hours advance notice; employers who violate this provision face fines up to $200.00