Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress House Bill HB627

Introduced
1/30/23  

Caption

VOTE Act Verification Of The Electorate Act

Impact

If passed, HB 627 would impact voter registration processes across states by imposing new requirements that could potentially limit access to voting for some individuals. The emphasis on providing documentary proof of citizenship may lead to increased scrutiny and verification processes, affecting how quickly and efficiently eligible voters can register. Proponents of the bill argue that these measures are necessary to prevent voter fraud and to preserve the democratic process, asserting that such requirements ultimately protect the rights of legitimate voters. However, critics contend that such measures could disenfranchise eligible voters, particularly among marginalized communities who may face barriers in obtaining the necessary documents.

Summary

House Bill 627, known as the Verification Of The Electorate Act or the VOTE Act, proposes significant amendments to the National Voter Registration Act of 1993. The bill introduces strict requirements, mandating that individuals provide documentary proof of U.S. citizenship to register to vote in federal elections. This change aims to strengthen the integrity of the voting process by ensuring that only U.S. citizens can participate in elections. The bill outlines that the chief State election official, in consultation with the Election Assistance Commission, will determine acceptable forms of citizenship documentation, which could include various legal documents or identification forms.

Contention

The primary points of contention surrounding HB 627 revolve around its perceived implications for voter access and voter suppression. Supporters argue the bill is a crucial step toward election integrity, whereas opponents emphasize the risk of disenfranchisement, especially for groups such as immigrants, minorities, and lower-income citizens who may struggle with the new documentation requirements. The debate reflects broader national conversations about voting rights and election security, with differing views on the balance between preventing fraud and ensuring equitable access to the electoral process.

Companion Bills

US HB487

Related 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.

Previously Filed As

US HB1439

Vote at Home Act of 2023

US HB5294

Unhoused Voter Opportunity Through Elections Act

US HB4563

ACE Act End Zuckerbucks Act of 2023 Solving an Overlooked Loophole in Votes for Executives (SOLVE) Act Promoting Free and Fair Elections Act Don't Weaponize the IRS Act American Confidence in Elections Act

US SB2344

Freedom to Vote Act Voters’ Access to Water Act Right to Vote Act Automatic Voter Registration Act of 2023 Help America Run Act Government By the People Act of 2023 Restoring Integrity to America’s Elections Act Stop Super PAC–Candidate Coordination Act Spotlight Act Honest Ads Act DISCLOSE Act of 2023 Democracy Is Strengthened by Casting Light On Spending in Elections Act of 2023 Voter Confidence and Increased Accessibility Act of 2023 Deceptive Practices and Voter Intimidation Prevention Act of 2023 Democracy Restoration Act of 2023 Voter Registration Modernization Act of 2023 Voter Empowerment Act of 2023

US HB11

Freedom to Vote Act This bill addresses voter registration and voting access, election integrity and security, redistricting, and campaign finance. Specifically, the bill expands voter registration (e.g., automatic and same-day registration) and voting access (e.g., vote-by-mail and early voting). It also limits removing voters from voter rolls. Next, the bill establishes Election Day as a federal holiday. The bill declares that the right of a U.S. citizen to vote in any election for federal office shall not be denied or abridged because that individual has been convicted of a criminal offense unless, at the time of the election, such individual is serving a felony sentence. The bill establishes certain federal criminal offenses related to voting. In particular, the bill establishes a new criminal offense for conduct (or attempted conduct) to corruptly hinder, interfere with, or prevent another person from registering to vote or helping someone register to vote. Additionally, the bill sets forth provisions related to election security, including by requiring states to conduct post-election audits for federal elections. The bill outlines criteria for congressional redistricting and generally prohibits mid-decade redistricting. The bill addresses campaign finance, including by expanding the prohibition on campaign spending by foreign nationals, requiring additional disclosure of campaign-related fundraising and spending, requiring additional disclaimers regarding certain political advertising, and establishing an alternative campaign funding system for certain federal offices.

US HB487

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.

US HB5293

Youth Voting Rights Act

US HB14

John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act of 2023 This bill establishes new criteria for determining which states and political subdivisions must obtain preclearance before changes to voting practices may take effect. Preclearance is the process of receiving preapproval from the Department of Justice (DOJ) or the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia before making legal changes that would affect voting rights. A state and all of its political subdivisions shall be subject to preclearance of voting practice changes for a 10-year period if, during the previous 25 years: 15 or more voting rights violations occurred in the state; 10 or more violations occurred, at least 1 of which was committed by the state itself; or 3 or more violations occurred and the state administers the elections. A political subdivision as a separate unit shall also be subject to preclearance for a 10-year period if three or more voting rights violations occurred there during the previous 25 years. States and political subdivisions that meet certain thresholds regarding minority groups must preclear covered practices before implementation, such as redistricting. States and political subdivisions must notify the public of changes to voting practices. The bill authorizes DOJ to require states or political subdivisions to provide certain documents or answers to questions for enforcing voting rights. The bill outlines factors courts must consider when hearing challenges to voting practices, such as the extent of any history of official voting discrimination in the state or political subdivision.

US SB156

Accountability Through Electronic Verification Act

US HB4460

NO VOTE for Non-Citizens Act of 2023 Non-citizens: Outlawed from Voting in Our Trusted Elections Act of 2023

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