A proposed law that could require proof of citizenship to register to vote is poised to advance in Congress, with potential movement as soon as Thursday. The Safeguard American Voting Eligibility Act, or SAVE Act, aims to prevent undocumented immigrants from participating in elections. However, critics argue that this legislation could inadvertently make it more challenging for many Americans to vote, as millions of citizens may lack documents such as a birth certificate or passport to prove their citizenship.
The bill could disproportionately affect women who have changed their last name after marriage, necessitating them to present a passport or other name-change documents to register to vote. Proponents of the bill, primarily Republicans, view it as a sensible measure to ensure only citizens participate in federal elections. They emphasize the importance of maintaining legal and constitutional election processes.
Opposition comes primarily from Democrats, who contend that the bill is a form of voter suppression designed to obstruct younger and low-income individuals from registering. They argue that the legislation forces a politically challenging vote against a solution targeting a non-existent problem. Previously, the SAVE Act passed the Republican-controlled House but stalled in the Senate. With Republicans now controlling both houses of Congress and the White House post-2024 election, the bill stands a greater chance of becoming law.
The House rules committee recently approved the bill, setting the stage for a potential vote on the floor. Should it pass the House, it would proceed to the Senate, where it would require a bipartisan 60-vote majority to overcome a filibuster. This scenario would necessitate support from some Democratic senators.
Critics, including Democrats and voting-rights advocates, argue that the SAVE Act addresses an issue that lacks empirical evidence. They maintain that existing measures already prevent illegal registrations and voting by non-citizens. The proposed law would require individuals to register to vote in person with proof of citizenship, effectively eliminating online or motor voter registration methods frequently used by young voters. Approximately 20 million voters reportedly lack a birth certificate, and with fewer than half of Americans possessing a passport, the proposed requirements could impact a significant portion of the electorate.
Older Black citizens, particularly those born during the Jim Crow era, may face additional hurdles in obtaining necessary documents. Similarly, married women who have changed their surname would need to provide proof of citizenship in their current name, complicating the process further. Those without documentation would face the difficult decision of investing time and money to secure new identity documents or forgoing voter registration altogether.
The Impact on Everyday Life
- Increased Barriers to Voting: Ordinary citizens could encounter increased barriers to voting due to the stringent document requirements, potentially disenfranchising millions who lack immediate access to proof of citizenship.
- Financial Burden: Obtaining the necessary documents, such as a passport, would impose a financial burden on individuals, particularly affecting low-income families and those unable to afford the associated fees.
- Impact on Women and Minorities: Women who have changed their names due to marriage and minorities lacking historical documentation might face additional challenges in meeting the new requirements.
- Political Landscape Shift: The SAVE Act could reshape the political landscape by altering voter registration dynamics, potentially affecting the turnout and demographic composition of future elections.
- Strain on Public Resources: The implementation of this law could place additional strain on public resources as individuals seek assistance in obtaining necessary documentation and navigating the registration process.