S. 3177: Citizen Ballot Protection Act

This bill, titled the Citizen Ballot Protection Act, proposes amendments to the National Voter Registration Act of 1993. The primary purpose of the bill is to allow U.S. states to require proof of citizenship when individuals register to vote by mail.

Key Provisions

• Registration Forms: The bill would modify state mail voter registration forms to include a requirement for applicants to provide proof of their U.S. citizenship.
• Authority Change: The bill proposes changing the regulatory reference from the Federal Election Commission to the Election Assistance Commission in the context of voter registration.
• Implementation: The requirement for proof of citizenship would be in addition to existing criteria already stated in the National Voter Registration Act.
• Effective Date: The provisions of this bill would take effect immediately upon enactment.

Impact on Voter Registration

By allowing states to mandate proof of citizenship for mail-in voter registration applications, the bill could potentially influence the number of individuals who register to vote, as those who cannot provide the required documentation may be unable to complete their registration.

General Context

This legislative change aims to bolster the integrity of the voting process by ensuring that only U.S. citizens can register and vote in federal elections. As with all legislative measures, the implications are subject to debate and discussion among lawmakers and the public.

Relevant Companies

None found