California Assembly Bill AB1764

California 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/9/26
• Refer: 2/23/26
• Report Pass: 4/15/26
• Refer: 4/20/26
• Refer: 5/6/26

Caption

Elections: voter registration.

Impact

The bill imposes additional duties on county elections officials by requiring them to utilize electronic data from the Social Security Administration and the State Department of Health Care Services to manage voter registrations. Additionally, as this change represents a mandated local program, it triggers the California Constitution's requirement for the state to reimburse local agencies for specified costs incurred by this mandate. The Commission on State Mandates will determine if incurred costs warrant reimbursement under the existing statutory framework.

Summary

Assembly Bill 1764, introduced by Assembly Member Sanchez, seeks to amend Section 2206 of the Elections Code regarding the management of voter registration cancellations for deceased individuals. The bill allows the Secretary of State to enter into an agreement with the federal Social Security Administration by January 1, 2028, to facilitate the availability of death statistics. This would enhance the mechanism through which county elections officials could cancel the voter registrations of deceased individuals more effectively and efficiently by using electronic data.

Sentiment

The sentiment around AB 1764 appears to be generally supportive, especially concerning the intent to streamline election processes and ensure voter registration accuracy. Legislators recognize the importance of maintaining up-to-date lists for election integrity while facilitating accurate cancellations for those who are deceased. Nonetheless, discussions may involve concerns about the potential financial impacts on local election offices due to the added responsibilities and whether the state's reimbursement provisions will adequately cover these new costs.

Contention

A notable point of contention may arise from the balance between state control and local responsibilities. While the bill aims to enhance efficiency in voter registration management, it increases the workload for local officials, which could lead to discussions on funding and resource allocation. Critics could argue that the state's financial commitment to reimburse local agencies must be clearly defined to avoid unfunded mandates that could strain local budgets and resources.