What is the NVRA's purpose?
The NVRA has two main goals: to increases the opportunities for eligible voters to register to vote, and to protect the integrity of elections by requiring states to maintain accurate and current voter registration rolls through list maintenance. States are required to offer voter registration opportunities by mail, at Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) offices, at public assistance agencies, state-funded agencies primarily serving people with disabilities, and at other designated offices.
What type of public agencies must offer voter registration?
The NVRA required each state to designate a set of voter registration agencies (VRAs). Generally, VRAs are the Department of Motor Vehicles and other offices that provide either public assistance or state services to people with disabilities. In California, the list of VRAs, also includes the Franchise Tax Board, the Department of Tax and Fee Administration, and Covered California.
What if the agency provides service to a person at their home?
If an agency, such as In-Home Support Services (IHSS), provides services to people at home, then the NVRA requires the agency to provide voter registration services in the home as well.
What duties does the Secretary of State have under the NVRA?
The Secretary of State is the chief elections official responsible for coordination of the state's responsibilities under the NVRA. This includes establishing training materials and resources for VRA coordinators and staff and county elections officials. The Secretary of State also publishes the NVRA Manual outlining the duties and responsibilities of the Secretary of State, voter registration opportunities at designated VRAs, and List Maintenance standards for county elections officials. The Secretary of State is also in charge of making registration forms available through governmental and private entities.
Who has enforcement authority?
The Voting Section of the Civil Rights Division of the U.S. Department of Justice is tasked with enforcing the NVRA.
Where can I find information on NVRA training?
Information on training VRA Coordinators and Staff can be found on the Training Information and Resources web pages.
