Assemblyman Andy Goodell, R-Jamestown, recently introduced legislation that would make it easier for taxpayers to register to vote.

The legislation would allow taxpayers to register to vote when they file their state income tax returns, pay their property taxes, or file the paperwork to purchase a new house.

“These tax documents can be easily amended to enable taxpayers to register to vote when they file their tax returns, pay their property taxes, or purchase a new home,” Goodell said.

The legislation would build on the success of the motor-voter program, where residents can register to vote at DMV offices when they renew their licenses and vehicle registrations. The DMV then electronically transmits the relevant information to the board of elections.

Likewise, under Goodell’s legislation, the state Department of Taxation and local tax collectors would electronically transmit the necessary information to the board of elections.

Goodell thanked both Democrat Election Commissioner Norm Green and Republican Election Commissioner Brian Abram for their willingness to review drafts of the legislation. The final draft of the legislation included changes suggested by the local election commissioners.

“It is incredibly important that taxpayers register to vote and actively participate in local, state and national elections. Ultimately, they are the ones who must foot the bill for all the government programs,” Goodell said. “This legislation would make it easier for taxpayers to register to vote, and should help improve their electoral participation. I am hopeful that it will receive strong bi-partisan support.”