Louisiana House Bill HB313

Louisiana 2021 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/30/21
• Refer: 3/30/21
• Refer: 4/12/21

Caption

Provides relative to the crime of filing or maintaining false public records

Impact

The inclusion of false statements in voter registration applications as a punishable offense under the crime of filing false public records signifies a shift in the legal landscape governing voter registration procedures. This amendment is intended to deter fraudulent practices and maintain the security of public records related to elections. The addition of this clause may lead to increased scrutiny of voter registration applications and could potentially influence the administration of elections, making it imperative for applicants to provide accurate information to avoid criminal penalties, including fines or imprisonment.

Summary

House Bill 313, introduced by Representative Hodges, seeks to expand the definition of the crime of filing or maintaining false public records. Specifically, it introduces a provision that criminalizes the act of submitting a voter registration application with a false statement regarding the applicant's citizenship status. By including the provisions related to voter registration, the bill aims to bolster the integrity of the voting process by ensuring that only individuals who are citizens of the United States may register to vote.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 313 appears to be mixed, with proponents emphasizing the need for stringent measures to protect the electoral process from fraud. Supporters argue that by penalizing false statements on voter registration forms, the bill addresses a critical area of concern in election integrity. Conversely, critics of the bill express concerns that such measures could disproportionately affect marginalized communities and lead to disenfranchisement, as the fear of penalties may deter individuals from registering or voting, particularly if they are unsure about their citizenship status.

Contention

Notable points of contention include debates over the implications of defining and enforcing the crime of submitting false voter registration applications. Critics raise alarms regarding the potential for such legislation to create barriers for voters, especially among populations that may struggle with bureaucratic processes or documentation requirements. There is also concern about how the enforcement of this provision may impact individuals with legitimate uncertainty regarding their citizenship status, further complicating the landscape of voting rights and access.