Plain Language Summary
# SAVE America Act Summary **What the Bill Would Do** The SAVE America Act would require people to show official documents proving U.S. citizenship when registering to vote in federal elections, and would require photo identification at the polls. Acceptable documents would include IDs that comply with the REAL ID Act (like certain driver's licenses). States would also need to create an alternative process for voters to demonstrate citizenship if they don't have standard documentation. **Who It Affects and Current Status** This bill would affect all voters in federal elections and require states to change their voter registration procedures.
It's currently in committee and has not been voted on by the full House. Sponsored by Rep. Chip Roy (R-TX), the bill reflects ongoing debate over voting access and election security—supporters argue citizenship verification strengthens election integrity, while critics contend it could create barriers for eligible voters without certain documents.
CRS Official Summary
Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act or the SAVE America ActThis bill requires individuals to provide documentary proof of U.S. citizenship when registering to vote, and requires photo identification to vote, in federal elections.Specifically, the bill prohibits states from accepting and processing an application to register to vote in a federal election unless the applicant presents documentary proof of U.S. citizenship. The bill specifies what documents are considered acceptable proof of U.S. citizenship, such as identification that complies with the REAL ID Act of 2005 that indicates U.S. citizenship.Further, the bill (1) prohibits states from registering an individual to vote in a federal election unless, at the time the individual applies to register to vote, the individual provides documentary proof of U.S. citizenship; and (2) requires states to establish an alternative process to demonstrate U.S. citizenship.Each state must take affirmative steps on an ongoing basis to ensure that only U.S. citizens are registered to vote, which shall include establishing a program to identify individuals who are not U.S. citizens using information supplied by certain sources.Additionally, states must remove noncitizens from their official lists of eligible voters.The bill (1) provides for a private right of action for certain violations, and (2) establishes criminal penalties for certain offenses.Individuals voting in federal elections must present an eligible photo identification document. An individual who votes by absentee ballot must submit a copy of their identification document with both the request for, and the submission of, the absentee ballot.
Latest Action
Referred to the House Committee on House Administration.