Proof of Citizenship to Vote? House Just Backed It — Here’s What That Means for You

The House of Representatives passed the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act in a 220-208 vote, with four Democrats joining Republicans to back the bill. Sponsored by Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas), the legislation would require individuals to present proof of citizenship in person to register for federal elections. It also mandates states to create systems for removing undocumented immigrants from voter rolls and allows citizens to sue election officials who fail to enforce the requirements.

"In order to preserve this republic, we must uphold what it means to be able to vote in a U.S. election," Roy stated. "I am grateful that my colleagues answered the call and passed the SAVE Act, as this serves as a critical first step to ensure that we maintain election integrity throughout our country."

The bill aims to cement an executive order recently issued by former President Donald Trump, which demands proof of citizenship for voter registration—a response to ongoing, but widely discredited, claims of election fraud. Courts have consistently blocked similar attempts by states to impose documentary citizenship requirements, citing potential violations of federal law.

Critics warn the bill could disenfranchise millions of eligible voters, particularly those who lack easy access to necessary documentation. “My Republican colleagues crafted and passed one of the most damaging voter suppression bills in modern history,” said Rep. Joe Morelle (D-N.Y.). 

“There’s no doubt that women, military members, and people of color will be disproportionately impacted. The fight to stop this bill — to protect Americans’ sacred right to vote — is not over.”

Currently, federal law already prohibits noncitizens from voting and requires registrants to affirm citizenship under penalty of perjury. Voting also creates a traceable paper trail reviewed by election officials. Despite the rarity of noncitizen voting, Trump and allies continue to amplify these concerns.

The bill’s future in the Senate is unclear. Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah) introduced a companion measure earlier this year, but with a Democratic-led chamber, Republicans would need bipartisan support to meet the 60-vote threshold. Lee’s bill currently has 20 Republican co-sponsors.

Link: NBCNews