With just one dissenting vote in each of the state’s house and senate, Hawaii’s legislature passed a comprehensive automatic voter registration bill that will automatically enroll citizens on the state’s voter rolls upon their eligibility date.
According to West Hawaii Today, the law with 23 votes in the state senate and 50 votes in the state house. One Republican in each chamber voted “nay” on the bill, which will now go to the desk of Democratic Governor David Ige for his signature. There is only one Republican in the state senate and four Republicans in the state house.
The law will make voter registration an automated part of applying for a driver’s license or a state identification card. It will also automatically update a voter’s registration should the address or name on the identification changes, unless the individual opts out of doing so.
“This is a big improvement for Hawaii’s voters. Automatic Voter Registration will provide more convenience, help ensure the accuracy of voter rolls and help ensure compliance with Federal voting rights laws. The League of Women Voters hails this change!” Helen Hemmes, president of the League of Women Voters of Hawaii County, said in a prepared statement.