Automatic voter registration plan draws cheers, concerns

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) - Illinois Senate Democrats say automatic voter registration - you're put on the rolls when you get a driver's license or state ID - would be more efficient, save money and increase participation on Election Day.

Sen. Andy Manar, a Bunker Hill Democrat, proposed his plan to a Senate subcommittee last week. It's modeled on an Oregon law adopted last spring. California adopted a similar law this month.

Manar stressed people asked about registering may decline.

Sandy Raddue is an election activist for the Oregon Republican Party. She says the GOP there is worried about voter fraud, privacy protections and an outdated computer system.

A spokesman says the secretary of state's office has questions about additional training and cost at the driver's centers.