Motor Voter works by reducing unnecessary and burdensome bureaucratic obstacles to voter registration. The law requires states to provide uniform registration services through drivers' license agencies, through public assistance and disability agencies and through mail-in registration. In 1995, the first full year of implementation, more than 11 million citizens registered to vote or updated their voting addresses under the law. This figure represents the largest single increase in voter registration since the practice of registration was established. Motor Voter is making the electorate larger, more diverse and more reflective of the American population.
Voting is the most essential right in any democracy.
By making voter registration simple, quick, and more accessible, Motor Voter has enhanced this right and opened up the political process for all Americans. There could be no better investment in the future or our democracy than the proven success and even greater promise of Motor Voter. As you can see, the Assistant Democratic Leader is here this morning to commemorate the third anniversary of President Clinton's signing the motor voter bill. The motor voter bill has exceeded our expectations. It has been an extraordinary success.