RegistrationStudent Voter Registration
Section § 2145
This section designates the name of the law as the Student Voter Registration Act of 2003.
Section § 2146
This California law requires the Secretary of State to provide voter registration forms annually to high schools, community colleges, and state university campuses. They should also offer extra forms if a school requests them. Each form must come with a notice explaining who can register, and students can either return their forms by mail or deliver them in-person to local election officials or the Secretary of State directly.
Schools with automated class registration systems are expected to allow students to register to vote online through the Secretary of State's website. Other schools need to implement these systems within two years. The University of California is encouraged to do the same.
The Secretary of State is responsible for reporting annual student voter registration efforts to the Legislature, including counts of registration forms sent and returned. The overall goal is to ensure that all eligible students have a solid opportunity to register to vote, using methods like providing forms at key times and places or including online registration options.
Section § 2147
By July 1, 2018, California State University and California Community Colleges needed to set up a system for students who enroll online to submit their voter registration form electronically through the Secretary of State's website. The University of California is also encouraged to collaborate with the Secretary of State.
Section § 2148
This law requires every high school, community college, and California State University campus to appoint a contact person responsible for coordinating the distribution of voter registration cards. This person must provide their contact information, such as address, phone number, and email, to the Secretary of State. Although not mandatory, the University of California is encouraged to do the same.
Section § 2148.5
The Secretary of State is responsible for promoting student voter registration and participation through a program called the Students Vote Project. This involves working with community colleges and state universities to provide necessary materials, like print calendars with civic and election dates, as outlined in the Education Code. Additionally, there must be a dedicated web page for the project, which includes crucial voting information and key dates for students.