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Bill

Bill

HJM 4007

Requesting that the attorney general of the United States audit and review the state department of licensing's implementation of the "motor voter law."

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Rob Chase and 5 co-sponsors

Washington requests federal Attorney General audit state Department of Licensing's implementation of voter registration procedures tied to driver's licenses.

By resolution, reintroduced and retained in present status.
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Bill Summary · HJM 4007

Legislative bill overview

HJM 4007 is a memorial requesting that the federal Attorney General audit and review how Washington State's Department of Licensing implements the National Voter Registration Act (commonly called the "motor voter law"). The bill does not create new requirements but formally asks for federal oversight of state voting registration procedures connected to driver's licensing.

Why is this important

The "motor voter law" requires states to offer voter registration when citizens apply for driver's licenses, and this intersects voting access, election administration, and compliance with federal mandates. An audit could identify gaps between federal requirements and state implementation, potentially affecting thousands of Washington residents' voting eligibility and registration status.

Potential points of contention

  • Federal vs. state authority: Whether a federal audit is appropriate or represents overreach into state election administration, which is traditionally state-controlled
  • Partisan motivation: The bill's sponsors are all Republicans, which may reflect concerns about voter registration accuracy, though Democrats might view this as voter suppression implications
  • Resource allocation: Whether an expensive federal audit is necessary versus internal state review or existing oversight mechanisms

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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