PURPOSE: This amendment authorizes the use of a petitions processing software program that is not a module within the centralized Missouri Voter Registration System (MCVR) but interfaces in real time with MCVR. This amendment will allow local election authorities to use technological advancements that will result in efficiencies and greater quality control in petitions processing.
PURPOSE: The purpose of this rule is to clarify that local election authorities have the option to use the centralized Missouri Voter Registration System (MCVR) or a petition processing software program provided and maintained by the Office of the Secretary of State that interfaces in real time with MCVR for initiative, referendum, new party, and independent candidate petition signature verification as allowed under Chapters 11 5 and 116, RSMo. MCVR is the official statewide voter registration list which was created and implemented as part of the Help America Vote Act of 2002. This system is maintained and administered by the Office of the Secretary of State and contains the name and registration information of every legally registered Missouri voter. It serves as the official voter registration list for the conduct of all elections in Missouri and allows local election authorities immediate real-time electronic access to the information contained in the system. Currently, local election authorities may use this system for petition signature verification as authorized by Chapter 115, RSMo. The secretary of state may make rules to ensure uniform, complete, and accurate checking of initiative and referendum petition signatures.
15 CSR 30-15.030
*Original authority: 115.335.7, RSMo 1977, amended 1993, 1995 and 116.130, RSMo 1980, amended 1988, 1995, 1997, 1999, 2003.