The proposed legislation could have significant ramifications for state laws regarding election administration, particularly in states that currently have more lax voting regulations. By prohibiting federal funding for states that do not comply with the new standards, HB512 pressures these states to adopt stricter voter ID laws, limit absentee ballot voter assistance, and restrict drop box accessibility. Opponents of the bill argue that such measures could disenfranchise voters, particularly among demographics that may face challenges in obtaining valid photo identification or accessing polling places.
Summary
House Bill 512, also known as the 'One Citizen One Vote Act', aims to amend the Help America Vote Act of 2002 to strengthen the integrity of elections for federal office. The bill proposes that the Election Assistance Commission shall not make payments to states or jurisdictions that fail to adhere to specific standards designed to protect the election process. These standards include requirements for voter identification, restrictions on absentee ballot management, and limitations on ballot drop box usage. Essentially, the bill seeks to ensure that all states implement measures deemed essential for secure and fair elections.
Contention
Debate surrounding HB512 has become contentious. Proponents argue that the bill is vital for maintaining the credibility of elections and preventing voter fraud, while opponents claim it serves as a tool for voter suppression. Key points of contention include the bill's potential effects on voter turnout, particularly among minorities and low-income individuals who may struggle to provide the required documentation to vote. Critics also emphasize that the bill could disproportionately impact states that prioritize voter accessibility and inclusivity in their election processes.
Ensuring American Voters Act of 2023 This bill prohibits states from registering an individual to vote in federal elections unless the individual provides documentary proof of U.S. citizenship.
Restoring Faith in Elections Act This bill establishes certain standards for voting, including voting by mail, in federal elections. It also establishes certain requirements for voter registration and maintenance of official lists of eligible voters. First, the bill establishes certain requirements for voting by mail in federal elections, including by requiring mail-in ballots to be received by the time the polls close on election day. Additionally, the bill makes it unlawful to possess or return a mail-in ballot completed by another person (commonly referred to as ballot harvesting), with exceptions. A violator is subject to criminal penalties—a fine, a prison term of up to one year, or both. Further, the bill establishes certain requirements for reporting results of federal elections, including by requiring states to count all eligible ballots within 24 hours after the election. Next, the bill provides for the automatic registration of eligible voters. The Election Assistance Commission must make grants to states to implement these automatic voter registration programs. It also requires states and jurisdictions to use standards that apply equally to all methods of voting used in federal elections, including standards related to signature verification. Finally, the bill establishes the National Deconfliction Voting Database and Clearinghouse to serve as a database and clearinghouse for voter registration records and lists of eligible voters. Additionally, each state must certify that it has removed ineligible voters from the official list of eligible voters prior to the federal election.
Securing America's Elections Act of 2023 This bill requires voting systems for federal elections to produce paper ballots that the voter may inspect and verify before the vote is cast and counted. The bill also (1) requires the paper ballot to be suitable for manual audits, (2) prescribes approved methods for such audits, and (3) directs the Department of Homeland Security and the Election Assistance Commission to report on the desirability of using open-source software in voting systems.