The Vermont Legislature passed a bill that would allow automatic voter registration.

The bill now heads to Governor Peter Shumlin’s desk.

According to a press release, the bill would streamline the federally mandated voter registration at the Department of Motor Vehicles with a new process and automatically adds eligible Vermonters to the statewide voter checklist electronically.

The voter would not have to take any further action.

“I believe voting is a sacred right – one we must protect and encourage by removing unnecessary barriers. Democracy works best when more people participate. I once again applaud the Legislature for their hard work and thank them for their nonpartisan support,” said Secretary of State Jim Condos.

If signed into law, Vermont will become the fourth state in the nation to enact a similar law.