Automatic Voter Registration Bill Unanimously Passes Mass. Senate

BEACON HILL, MA —The Senate passed a bill Thursday that would make it a lot easier for residents to register to vote. So easy, they wouldn't actually really have to register to vote if the governor signs it into law.

The bill would automatically enroll eligible voters when they interact with the Registry of Motor Vehicles or MassHealth unless they chose to opt out.

The bill (H 4671) had overwhelming support in the Senate, passing 38-0.

Senate Majority Leader Cynthia Creem said the bill would help officials weed out improper voter registration.

The House previously passed the bill 130-20. The Senate's version added an amendment that was recommended by the governor's office, according to Statehouse News Service.

“Nearly 700,000 residents are eligible to vote in Massachusetts, yet persistent barriers and confusion about the registration process make it more difficult for people to register to vote,” said Senator Cindy Friedman of Arlington. “We should be making it easier for people to exercise their right to vote, not harder. This bill will ensure that eligible voters have fair and equal access to our state election process, encourage greater participation in the political process, increase voter turnout and ultimately strengthen our democracy.”

The legislation also aims to bolster voter-data security. It updates the requirements for transmission of voter registration affidavits and requires the Secretary of State to promulgate regulations to ensure registration is done through electronic transmission, with data security protocols and integration with the online portals.

The legislation would increase penalties associated with voter fraud. It orders that whoever knowingly provides false information in connection with automatic voter registration shall be punished by a fine of not more than $10,000 or imprisonment for up to 5 years or both.

Beacon Hill watchers presume the governor will sign it into law at the end of the month. Patch reached out to the governor and his spokesman only said in a statement:

"The Governor will carefully review any legislation that reaches his desk," said Brendan Moss.

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