H.R. 2847: Vote at Home Act of 2025

This bill, known as the Vote at Home Act of 2025, proposes amendments to existing laws to enhance voting accessibility in federal elections in the United States. Here are the key components of the bill:

Voting by Mail for All Eligible Voters

The bill mandates that all eligible voters in federal elections have the option to vote by mail. It forbids states from imposing any additional conditions on voters for casting mail-in ballots, except for deadlines relating to ballot requests and returns. Specifically, the states must mail ballots to registered voters at least two weeks before an election.

Access for Individuals with Disabilities

All mail-in ballots provided under the new regulations must be accessible to individuals with disabilities, ensuring they have the same opportunities for access and participation in the voting process as other voters.

Free Postage for Mail-in Voting

The bill stipulates that ballots sent by state or local election officials to voters and submitted by voters will be mailed free of charge. This is intended to reduce barriers for individuals who might otherwise face challenges in mailing their ballots.

Streamlined Voter Registration

The bill seeks to simplify the voter registration process by allowing individuals to register to vote while applying for a state driver’s license or identification card. The registration application must be included as part of the motor vehicle application, with minimal duplication of information required.

Automatic Voter Registration

This legislation would also implement automatic voter registration through state motor vehicle authorities for individuals who are eligible. This means that individuals automatically registered will receive a notice informing them of their registration status unless they opt out. This aims to increase overall voter participation.

Timing and Compliance

States would need to comply with these requirements for federal elections beginning in 2026. Moreover, states are required to make sure that voter registration information is updated and accurate based on data from motor vehicle transactions.

Privacy and Protection of Registrants

Individuals automatically registered under this act will be protected from legal issues relating to their registration status. This includes provisions to prevent prosecution based on registration errors and emphasizes that such information should not be used in immigration-related legal proceedings.

Impact on Voter Turnout

The proponents of the bill argue that voting by mail typically increases voter turnout, particularly in special and primary elections. The legislation highlights previous examples from states using vote by mail systems to demonstrate successful participation rates.

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