HB 871 Maryland House of Delegates · 2026 Regular Session

Election Law - Enhanced Automatic Voter Registration System

HB 871 requires Maryland's Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) to implement an enhanced automatic voter registration system for eligible applicants during specific transactions, such as driver's license applications or renewals. The system automatically registers eligible residents to vote unless they explicitly decline, after which the MVA must provide a clear "enhanced notice" explaining registration eligibility, qualifications, and opt-out options. Voter registration data from applicants who don’t decline must be transmitted electronically to the State Board of Elections within 5 days. This applies primarily to MVA interactions but could expand to other agencies like social services or health exchanges with their consent. The bill aims to streamline voter registration while ensuring applicants understand their rights and choices.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2026
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Feb 4, 2026 Last action Feb 5, 2026
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Committee
1
Feb 4, 2026
Committee
First Reading Government, Labor, and Elections
lower
1 primary · 0 co-sponsors

Sponsors

Role
Legislator
Party
State
District
P
Photo of Vaughn Stewart
Vaughn Stewart
DDemocratic
MD
19