Iowa’s Secretary of State Paul Pate used a naturalization ceremony for new citizens to promote the state’s upcoming online voter registration.
Beginning January 1,2016, Iowans with valid drivers’ licenses or other legitimate forms of state ID will be able to log on to their computers and register to vote.
Pate says he encouraged the newly naturalized citizens to take advantage of this simple way to get involved in the electoral process.
”The biggest thing is the convenience, 24-7," Pate says. "If you’re working a nightshift, you don’t have to worry do I have to get up in the middle of my sleep day, if you will, to go out and register. No, you can just do it online.”
Pate says his office is working with the state’s Department of Transportation to ensure the new registration system is secure.
He’s also offering training for county auditors to help them understand the new process.
Pate says 77% of Iowans who hold valid drivers’ licenses or other legitimate forms of state identification are already registered to vote.
He says the convenience of the new method of registration will bring the state closer to the goal of full participation in the electoral process.
“I think it’s just one more tool that compliments Iowa’s aggressive approach to getting people involved in our government,” Pate says.
Nebraska is expected to introduce its online voter registration service next week.