VRM in the States: Connecticut

Advances in Voter Registration Modernization

• Electronic Voter Registration: Connecticut launched electronic voter registration at DMV offices in 2016. Information is electronically transferred from DMV offices to election officials.
• Online Voter Registration: Connecticut launched online voter registration through the Secretary of State’s office in 2014. Eligible citizens with a state driver’s license or non-driver ID can use the system to register to vote and update their registration information.
• Election Day Registration: Connecticut implemented Election Day registration in 2013. For general elections, voters can register in person at certain designated locations on Election Day. 

Gains from Voter Registration Modernization in Connecticut

The steps Connecticut has taken thus far have yielded increases in voter registration, and the state expects financial benefits. For example:

• During a March 2015 interview with Brennan Center staff, Connecticut election officials reported they expect to save money from online voter registration by printing fewer paper application forms and hiring fewer personnel to process applications.
• Connecticut implemented online registration at a cost of approximately $330,000.
• Between November 2014 and November 2016, the state received 100,334 new voter registration applications through its online portal. 
• In the November 2016 general election, 34,929 voters registered on Election Day.