US Federal 2023-2024 Regular Session

US Federal House Bill HB192

Introduced
1/9/23  
Refer
1/9/23  
Report Pass
7/12/23  

Caption

This bill prohibits an individual who is not a U.S. citizen from voting in any elections in the District of Columbia (DC). Federal law bars noncitizens from voting in federal elections; however, the DC Council passed a bill on October 18, 2022, that allows noncitizens who meet residency and other requirements to vote in local elections.

Impact

The bill's implications on state and local laws are significant as it repeals the rights granted to noncitizens by the D.C. law, effectively restoring the previous status quo barring noncitizens from voting. Supporters of the bill argue that it upholds the integrity of the electoral process, safeguarding it against potential abuses that could arise from allowing noncitizen voting. This change would mean that any noncitizen residing in the district would no longer have the opportunity to vote in local elections, underscoring a clear delineation between citizenship and electoral participation.

Summary

House Bill 192 seeks to prohibit individuals who are not citizens of the United States from participating in any voting process, whether in elections for public office or local ballot initiatives, specifically within the District of Columbia. This legislative move aims to counter a previous local amendment, the Local Resident Voting Rights Amendment Act of 2022, which allowed certain noncitizens to vote in local elections. By implementing this bill, Congress aims to reinforce a more traditional interpretation of voting rights, ensuring that only U.S. citizens can vote in all elections.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 192 appears to be polarized. Proponents see it as a reinforcement of electoral integrity and citizenship rights, standing firmly against any form of noncitizen participation in elections. Conversely, opponents view the bill as a regressive step that undermines democracy by stripping certain residents of their voting rights. Advocacy groups and some local officials have voiced concerns about the impact this legislation could have on inclusive governance and civic engagement within the District of Columbia.

Contention

Notably, the contention lies in the debate over voting rights and the scope of enfranchisement in local jurisdictions. While supporters frame their argument as a necessary measure for maintaining lawful voting practices, detractors argue that this move could disenfranchise a substantial number of residents who contribute to their communities. The bill's passage reflects a broader national conversation about citizenship, immigration, and the rights associated with them, revealing underlying tensions in how different stakeholders envision inclusive democracy.

Companion Bills

US HR1243

Procedurally-related Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 4763) to provide for a system of regulation of digital assets by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission and the Securities and Exchange Commission, and for other purposes; providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 5403) to amend the Federal Reserve Act to prohibit the Federal reserve banks from offering certain products or services directly to an individual, to prohibit the use of central bank digital currency for monetary policy, and for other purposes; and providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 192) to prohibit individuals who are not citizens of the United States from voting in elections in the District of Columbia.

Previously Filed As

US SB2636

A bill to prohibit individuals who are not citizens of the United States from voting in elections in the District of Columbia and to repeal the Local Resident Voting Rights Amendment Act of 2022.

US HB149

Protecting Our Democracy by Preventing Foreign Citizens from Voting Act This bill prohibits federal funds from being made available to state or local governments that allow noncitizens to vote in federal, state, or local elections.

US HB884

To prohibit individuals who are not citizens of the United States from voting in elections in the District of Columbia and to repeal the Local Resident Voting Rights Amendment Act of 2022.

US S901

Concerning noncitizens voting in local elections and conduct in office by local government officers.

US A4037

Concerning noncitizens voting in local elections and conduct in office by local government officers.

US HJR107

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to prohibit voting in Federal, State, or local elections by individuals who are not citizens of the United States.

US H866

Enabling cities and towns to extend voting rights in municipal elections to certain noncitizens of the Commonwealth

US HJR31

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to prohibit persons who are not citizens, nationals, or lawful permanent residents of the United States from voting in elections.

US HB154

Securing our Elections Act of 2023 This bill establishes certain photo identification requirements for voting in federal elections. Specifically, the bill prohibits a state or local election official from providing a ballot for a federal election to an individual who does not present valid photo identification. Next, the bill outlines the availability of provisional ballots and the requirements for counting those ballots. In particular, an individual who does not present a valid photo identification must be permitted to cast a provisional ballot. However, an election official may not determine that the individual is eligible under state law to vote in the election unless, not later than three days after casting the provisional ballot, the individual presents (1) the identification required, or (2) an affidavit attesting that the individual does not possess the identification because of a religious objection to being photographed. An election official may not allow for voting methods other than in-person voting unless the individual submits the ballot with (1) a copy of their photo identification, or (2) the last four digits of their Social Security number with an affidavit attesting that the individual is unable to obtain a copy of a valid photo identification after making reasonable efforts to obtain a copy. This prohibition shall not apply to overseas military voters. The bill also requires an election official to provide an individual with a valid photo identification without charge if that individual presents an affidavit attesting to an inability to afford or otherwise obtain a valid photo identification.

US S512

Extending voting rights in municipal elections to noncitizen voters of the commonwealth

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.