U.S. SAVE Act Voter‑ID Bill Gains Congressional Momentum

The Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act, which would require documentary proof of U.S. citizenship for voter registration, has moved forward in Congress. The House Committee on House Administration reported favorably on the bill on May 23, 2024, and Senate Republican Sen. Mike Lee (R‑UT) has pushed for a floor vote, while Sen. John Cornyn (R‑TX) cautioned that the measure lacks sufficient Republican support.

Proponents, including Rep. Chip Roy of Texas and newly confirmed DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin, argue the legislation is needed to prevent non‑citizen voting and restore confidence in elections. Critics, led by Democrats, warn it could disenfranchise naturalized citizens and minorities, citing a 2013 Supreme Court ruling that limits state proof‑of‑citizenship requirements. The bill would amend the National Voter Registration Act of 1993, mandate states to verify citizenship through federal and state databases, and impose penalties for non‑compliance.

The debate reflects broader partisan battles over election security and immigration, with the SAVE Act serving as a focal point for both sides.