Voter Registration Upgrades Needed

The Pew Center on the States recently released an issue brief on "Evidence That America's Voter Registration System Needs an Upgrade".

The report underscores the need for registration systems that better maintain voter records, save money, and streamline processes. The report notes that nationwide:

• At least 51 million eligible citizens remain unregistered--more than 24% of the eligible population.
• More than 1.8 million deceased individuals are listed as voters.
• Approximately 2.75 million people have registrations in more than one state.
• About 12 million records have incorrect addresses, meaning either the voters moved, or errors in the information make it unlikely any mailings can reach them.

However, since 2010, elections officials from several states have been working with Pew on plans to upgrade their voter registration systems. This includes comparing registration lists with other data sources--like motor vehicle and National Change of Address records--minimizing data entry by finding ways for voters to submit information online, and using protocols to better track and identify inaccurate records. 

Although nonprofits might not be able to fix all these registration issues, there's plenty we can do to ensure all eligible citizens are registered. Learn more about voter registration and how you can participate in National Voter Registration Day on September 25!

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