S.128 - Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act; SAVE Act (119th Congress)
Summary
The Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act aims to amend the National Voter Registration Act of 1993, requiring individuals to provide documentary proof of United States citizenship when registering to vote in federal elections. This bill mandates that states implement procedures to verify citizenship and remove non-citizens from voter rolls. It also outlines acceptable forms of documentation and establishes processes for individuals who cannot initially provide proof.
Expected Effects
The SAVE Act would likely lead to stricter voter registration requirements across the United States. This could potentially decrease voter turnout, particularly among naturalized citizens and those who may have difficulty obtaining or presenting the required documentation. The Election Assistance Commission would play a key role in guiding states through the implementation of these new requirements.
Potential Benefits
- Increased Confidence in Election Integrity: Ensures only eligible citizens vote in federal elections.
- Reduced Potential for Voter Fraud: By requiring documentary proof, the risk of non-citizens voting is minimized.
- Standardized Verification Process: Provides clear guidelines for acceptable documentation and verification procedures.
- Improved Accuracy of Voter Rolls: Mandates the removal of non-citizens from voter registration lists.
- Enhanced National Security: Prevents potential foreign interference in elections.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Disenfranchisement of Eligible Voters: Naturalized citizens and those with limited access to required documents may face barriers to voting.
- Increased Administrative Burden: States will incur additional costs for implementing and managing the new verification processes.
- Potential for Discrimination: The documentary proof requirement could disproportionately affect minority groups and low-income individuals.
- Risk of Errors and Delays: The verification process could lead to errors and delays in voter registration.
- Legal Challenges: The Act may face legal challenges based on claims of voter suppression and discrimination.
Constitutional Alignment
The SAVE Act's constitutionality is debatable. Proponents argue it aligns with Article I, Section 2, which allows states to set voter qualifications, and the Tenth Amendment, reserving powers not delegated to the federal government to the states. Opponents may argue that it violates the Fourteenth Amendment's Equal Protection Clause and the Twenty-Sixth Amendment, which protects the right to vote regardless of age (18 or older), by creating undue burdens on certain citizens' right to vote.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).