What is the “National Voter Registration Act”?

The National Voter Registration Act (NVRA) is a federal law that was passed in 1993 and enforced in 1995. This law was put in place to make it easier for citizens to register to vote. In Washington, it requires the Secretary of State, along with other agencies, to provide a simple, consistent way for citizens to register to vote. This includes making voter registration forms available when citizens apply for or renew their driver’s license/state identification card, receiving public assistance, or when they visit a military recruitment office. It also requires states to accept and process mail-in registration forms. The NVRA also puts restrictions on states with respect to removing voters from the rolls. This includes when a person moves to a different address within the state, the state must send a notice to the voter to confirm the address change. The voter must then update their voter registration information either through a mail-in form, or in-person, within 30 days of the notice. This law helps to protect citizens’ right to vote, regardless of whether they have moved to a new address. The NVRA has been instrumental in increasing the accessibility of voter registration, especially for those who may face obstacles to registering, such as younger voters or those with disabilities. It has also ensured that those who move within a state will not be denied their right to vote. This law is one of the most important pieces of election law, as it helps ensure that everyone has the opportunity to choose their voice in the political process.

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