Public Assistance Databases and Automatic Voter Registration: A Survey
In a survey conducted with public assistance agencies in 40 states and the District of Columbia, Demos asked about the feasibility of implementing an upgrade of voter registration databases based upon the records kept by these agencies. Responses enforce the conclusions of the voter registration modernization movement: collaboration among election officials and public assistance agencies will increase the efficiency and accuracy of our voter rolls, and lower the cost of maintenance.

Read the report here.
Featured Resources
Exploring the ways in which technology can be better utilized to improve the accuracy of voter registration databases can provide valuable guidance. Researchers undertook a pilot project to determine the feasibility of using database matching to identify voters in Oregon and Washington.
The Election Assistance Commission recently published its eighth report on implementation of the National Voter Registration Act of 1993, which focused on the administration of the November 2006 and November 2008 elections.
This report from researchers at the University of Missouri explores public opinion on a select set of issues, including Election Day registration, voting by mail, photo identification requirements, and early voting.
The EAC's annual report on 2008 spending provides detailed information regarding states’ usage of HAVA funds, as well as data on competitive grants distributed by the EAC. Of the $2.96 billion they received from the EAC, states have spent 76% and are expected to use remaining funds in 2010.
Research Projects
Election Law @ Moritz, run through Moritz College of Law at the Ohio State University, contains both explanation and commentary on a wealth of election reform issues from a legal perspective.
Dēmos is a non-partisan public policy research and advocacy organization founded in 2000. A multi-issue national organization, Dēmoscombines research, policy development, and advocacy to influence public debates and catalyze change.
FairVote develops and promotes practical strategies to improve elections at the local, state and national levels.
Center for Democracy & Election Management was established at the School of Public Affairs at American University in 2002. Their broader goal is to pave the way for and strengthen democracy through improved electoral performance.
The Brennan Center for Justice at New York University School of Law is a non-partisan public policy and law institute that focuses on fundamental issues of democracy and justice.
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