H.R. 4823: Promoting Free and Fair Elections Act of 2025

This bill, titled the Promoting Free and Fair Elections Act of 2025, seeks to limit federal government involvement in voter registration and mobilization activities. Specifically, it addresses how agencies may use funds and interact with non-governmental organizations regarding these activities. The main provisions of the bill are as follows:

Prohibition of Agency Agreements with NGOs

• The bill prohibits federal agencies from entering into agreements with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to conduct voter registration or mobilization activities. This includes actions such as registering voters or providing voter registration materials.

Restrictions on Executive Order 14019

• It declares that any actions previously directed by Executive Order 14019, which promotes access to voting, cannot be enforced if they conflict with existing laws regarding voter registration (specifically section 7 of the National Voter Registration Act of 1993).
• The bill mandates a delay in implementation of any activities related to Executive Order 14019 until certain reporting requirements are met.

Reporting Requirements

• Agencies must submit a copy of their strategic plans for promoting voter registration to Congress within 30 days of the bill's enactment. If they do not have such a plan, they must provide a certification to that effect.
• Additionally, agencies are required to report on their previous activities related to voter registration under the same Executive Order within 30 days of enactment.

Changes to Federal Work-Study Programs

• The bill modifies the Higher Education Act to explicitly state that federal work-study programs should not involve registering or mobilizing voters on or off campus.

Definitions and Scope

• The bill provides definitions for key terms, specifying what constitutes an agency and identifying the appropriate congressional committees responsible for oversight.

Effective Date

• The provisions of the bill would take effect for the fiscal year 2025 and continue in subsequent years, outlining clear rules on how agencies can engage in voter-related activities.

Relevant Companies

None found