Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Online Voter Registration topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Committee backs AB 1116 to expand online registration by allowing signature image uploads
Summary
AB 1116 would let eligible Californians without a DMV ID register online by entering the last four digits of their Social Security number and uploading a signature image; the committee passed the bill with the author agreeing to work with the Secretary of State on technical and cost concerns.
The committee passed Assembly Bill 1116, which expands California’s Online Voter Registration (OVR) system to allow eligible applicants who lack a California DMV driver’s license or ID card to register online by providing the last four digits of their Social Security number and uploading a photograph of their signature.
Assemblymember Berman presented the bill and agreed to remove a provision that would have allowed third‑party organizations to connect via an API to the Secretary of State’s system. The Secretary of State’s office testified in support of the objective but cautioned the committee that the agency currently lacks the software to accept and securely transmit high‑quality digital signature images and that implementation would incur costs. Witnesses from pro‑democracy groups said OVR expansion (sometimes called “OVR Plus” in other states) would reduce the number of mailed paper registration forms and lower county processing costs.
Proponents cited experience in 13 other states and the District of Columbia that accept a signature image or alternative authentication to broaden online registration. The Institute for Responsive Government Action provided cost comparisons from other jurisdictions, and NextGen California emphasized equity benefits for young people and first‑time registrants.
The committee asked the author to work with the Secretary of State on security, IT and funding questions; the author and the Secretary of State said they would continue those discussions. The motion passed and the bill was re‑referred to Appropriations.
Committee roll call: Pellerin — aye; Macedo — not voting on the final roll; Berman — aye; Salace — aye; Stephanie — aye; Tongapha — aye. The chair announced the motion carried by committee.
