Georgia House Bill HR780

Georgia 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/24
• Report Pass: 2/16/24

Caption

Only citizens of the United States have right to vote in elections in Georgia; clarify - CA

Impact

If approved, HR780 will amend Article II, Section I of the Georgia Constitution, revising the existing language to explicitly define the voting rights of individuals. The implications of this change are significant, as it would formalize the citizenship criteria for voting, potentially impacting resident aliens and non-citizen populations who may currently be eligible to vote in certain capacities. This could lead to a stricter enforcement of voter registration requirements and affect future legislative actions regarding voting rights.

Summary

House Resolution 780 proposes an amendment to the Georgia Constitution that clarification on voting rights, stipulating that only citizens of the United States shall have the right to vote in elections held in Georgia. This proposed change aims to ensure that the right to vote is reserved specifically for U.S. citizens, reinforcing the citizenship requirement for participation in the state's electoral processes. The bill is a direct response to concerns about election integrity and the eligibility of voters.

Contention

The bill has sparked considerable debate within the state. Proponents argue that the amendment is necessary to protect the integrity of the electoral process, ensuring that only U.S. citizens can participate in elections. They emphasize that this clarity can help eliminate any ambiguity surrounding voter eligibility. Conversely, opponents of the bill express concerns that the amendment may be used to disenfranchise certain groups and create barriers for individuals who have been historically marginalized. This contention reflects broader national conversations about voting rights and access.