Final answer:
Studies suggest that same-day voter registration in states has a positive effect on voter turnout, particularly among young and low-income citizens. Same-day registration reduces barriers to participation, contributing to higher turnout rates, though overall turnout is influenced by other factors as well.
Step-by-step explanation:
In states that have instituted same-day voter registration, studies and observations suggest that the effect on voter turnout has been generally positive. Institutional factors such as the ease of registration can significantly impact voter participation rates. States that have adopted same-day registration and simpler voter registration procedures often see higher turnouts, especially among populations that typically have lower rates of voter participation, such as young citizens and those with lower incomes.
Efforts like the National Voter Registration Act of 1993 and the Help America Vote Act of 2002 have made registering to vote easier, thereby slowly increasing the number of registered voters over time. Yet, changes to make registration and voting more accessible have not always led to a long-term increase in voter turnout. Voter turnout is also influenced by other factors such as voter education, engagement with the political process, and the perceived impact of one's vote.