Passed House·Last action 377 days ago

Proof of citizenship would be required to register for federal elections

Officially: SAVE Act

People would have to show citizenship papers to register for federal elections. States would also have to check voter rolls for noncitizens and remove them when records verify they are not citizens. Election officials would face new lawsuit and criminal risks if they register people without the required proof.

Where it stands

Passed Senate. Now before the House.

This is the moment to act.

What this bill actually does

People would have to show proof of U.S. citizenship before a state could register them to vote in federal elections. This rule would apply no matter how they register.
The bill gives a detailed list of documents that can prove citizenship. The list includes certain REAL ID cards showing citizenship, U.S. passports, some military papers, specific birth records, consular birth reports, and naturalization or citizenship certificates.
The proof rule would apply at motor vehicle offices, voter registration agencies, and on the national mail voter registration form.

↓ Why your message matters here

This bill passed the Senate and is now before the House — this is the moment to act.

The debate

What people are saying about this bill

✓Arguments in support

Preventing Noncitizen Voting: Supporters argue that the bill will close loopholes that allow noncitizens to register and vote, ensuring only eligible U.S. citizens participate.
Restoring Public Trust in Elections: By requiring proof of citizenship, the bill is said to increase public confidence in election outcomes and reduce perceptions of fraud.
Standardizing Voter Registration: The bill would create a uniform federal standard for proof of citizenship, reducing variation among states.

✕Arguments against

Solving a Nonexistent Problem: Critics argue that noncitizen voting is extremely rare and existing laws already require registrants to affirm citizenship.
Disenfranchisement of Eligible Voters: Many Americans lack access to the required documents, potentially disenfranchising millions.
Administrative Burden and Cost: The bill would impose significant new burdens on election officials, requiring them to verify documents and audit existing rolls.

Where this bill is in the process

Legislative timeline

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Introduced

Introduced in House

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House Committee

Under House committee consideration

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House Floor Vote

Voted on by House

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Passed House

Approved by House

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Senate Review

Sent to Senate for consideration

Latest: Received in the Senate. (4/10/2025)

APR 10

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Passed Both Chambers

Approved by both House and Senate

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Signed into Law

Signed by the President

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Proof of citizenship would be required to register for federal elections

What people are saying about this bill

Legislative timeline

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