Us Congress Senate Bill SB1398

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/2/23
• Refer: 5/2/23

Caption

Promoting Free and Fair Elections Act

Impact

If enacted, SB1398 would materially alter state laws governing the interaction of federal agencies with voter registration efforts. By limiting agencies' capabilities to engage with non-governmental organizations in the voter registration process, the bill aims to enhance the integrity of elections as perceived by its supporters. The legislation is framed around concerns regarding election integrity and the use of public funds in mobilization efforts, suggesting that such actions could bias the electoral process by favoring certain political agendas.

Summary

Senate Bill 1398, titled the 'Promoting Free and Fair Elections Act', seeks to restrict the ability of government agencies to engage in voter registration and mobilization activities. This includes prohibiting agencies from soliciting or entering agreements with non-governmental organizations for voter registration activities on agency property or websites. The bill also restricts the use of federal funds in relation to certain activities directed under Executive Order 14019, which pertains to enhancing voter registration and voter participation efforts across federal agencies.

Contention

Major points of contention surrounding SB1398 focus on the implications for voter access and participation. Critics argue that the bill undermines efforts to increase voter engagement, especially among marginalized communities, by restricting organizations that traditionally support voter registration. Supporters, however, view it as a necessary measure to prevent perceived misuse of government resources. The debate framing centers around whether ensuring fair elections requires stricter control over recruitment and mobilization practices, or whether it risks disenfranchising voters and curtailing fundamental democratic participation.