relative to photo identification cards issued solely for the purpose of voting.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by James Gray

NH SB 660 creates a free, vote-only photo ID card via a voucher system for voters who lack acceptable ID, with costs paid by the secretary of state.

Signed by the Governor on 06/19/2026; Chapter 201; Effective 08/18/2026

Purpose and Intent

SB 660 creates a mechanism for issuing photo identification cards that are solely for voting purposes. The bill authorizes a voucher system so individuals who need photo ID to vote but do not have an acceptable form of identification can obtain a voter identification card at no cost. The card is limited to use for voter identification.

Key Provisions and Changes

Creation of a voter identification voucher process:

Individuals who require a photo ID strictly for voting can obtain a voucher from their town or city clerk. The secretary of state is also referenced as a potential issuer of the voucher.
The voucher exempts the applicant from paying the standard fee for a photo ID card.

Issuance and use of the voter identification card:

When the voucher is presented to the division, the actual costs of issuing the card are paid by the secretary of state from the election fund (RSA 5:6-d).
The issued card is valid solely for voter identification purposes and is labeled “for voter identification only.”

Voucher form and process details:

The voucher form requires the applicant’s name, domicile address, mailing address, and a sworn affirmation that the applicant needs the ID for voting and does not possess a qualifying form of ID.
The town or city clerk must verify that the applicant is listed on the voter checklist and has domicile proof within the relevant town or city.

Penalties for fraud:

The act reiterates existing penalties for fraudulent voting activities: per RSA 659:34, knowingly providing false information when voting is a class A misdemeanor (up to 1 year in prison and up to $2,000 fine).
Fraudulent registration or voting can incur civil penalties up to $5,000.

Effective date:

The act takes effect 60 days after its passage.

Who or What Is Affected

Voters who lack acceptable photo ID but need one to vote.

Town or city clerks who issue vouchers and verify domicile status.

Secretary of State and the Division of Motor Vehicles (or relevant issuing authorities) responsible for issuing the voter identification card and covering costs from the election fund.

Election administration in terms of administration of voter ID at polling places and on the voter checklist.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

Status and action timeline (as of text):

Introduced in February 2026; referred to the Election Law and Municipal Affairs Committee.
Public hearings occurred in March 2026, with committee hearings and votes culminating in an “Ought to Pass” recommendation in February 2026.
The act provides for a 60-day effective date after enactment.

Practical Implications

Aims to reduce barriers for voters who lack standard identification by offering a free, voter-only ID card through a voucher system.

Shifts costs of issuing such IDs to the secretary of state from the election fund.

Creates specific language and forms for vouchers to ensure verification against voter checklists and domicile status.

Maintains existing fraud penalties to deter misuse of the voting process.

If you’d like, I can tailor this summary for a briefing memo or produce a one-page summary with a quick-compare to current NH voter ID rules.

Bill