US Federal 2025-2026 Regular Session

US Federal House Bill HB2561

Introduced
4/1/25  

Caption

One Vote One Choice Act

Impact

If enacted, the bill would significantly affect how federal elections are conducted at the state level. States would be mandated to revert to more conventional voting methods, which could promote a uniform approach across the nation regarding the conduct of federal elections. This prohibition could alter the landscape of electoral procedures, particularly in states that have adopted ranked choice voting systems, potentially disenfranchising voters accustomed to these methods. Critics of the bill contend that it undermines state autonomy by restricting how states can manage their electoral systems.

Summary

House Bill 2561, known as the 'One Vote One Choice Act', seeks to amend the Help America Vote Act of 2002. The primary objective of this bill is to prohibit states from utilizing ranked choice voting systems in elections for federal offices. Proponents of the bill argue that ranked choice voting can lead to complications in the electoral process and may cause confusion among voters, thereby undermining the integrity of federal elections. They advocate for a more straightforward voting system that aligns with traditional voting methods, emphasizing the importance of clarity and simplicity in the electoral process.

Contention

The discussion surrounding HB2561 is likely to evoke strong opinions among legislators and the public alike. Supporters typically include conservative lawmakers who prioritize traditional voting methods, viewing ranked choice voting as an unnecessary experiment. Conversely, advocates for ranked choice voting argue that this system enhances voter choice and can better reflect the electorate's preferences. The bill's introduction could lead to contentious debates regarding states' rights, electoral integrity, and the evolution of voting practices in the United States.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

US HB2562

District of Columbia One Vote One Choice Act

US HB3040

Preventing Ranked Choice Corruption Act

US HB6589

Ranked Choice Voting Act

US SB3425

Ranked Choice Voting Act

US HB239

Same Day Registration Act of 2023 This bill requires states with a voter registration requirement to make same-day voter registration available at the polling place on any day voting is permitted.

US HB156

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.

US HB7219

FAIR MAP Act Fair Apportionment and Independent Redistricting for Maps that Avoid Partisanship Act

US HB160

Restoring Faith in Elections ActThis 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.

US HB8078

Voter Empowerment Act of 2026 Voter Registration Efficiency Act Automatic Voter Registration Act of 2026 Voter Confidence and Increased Accessibility Act of 2026 Democracy Restoration Act of 2026 Deceptive Practices and Voter Intimidation Prevention Act of 2026 Voter Registration Modernization Act of 2026

US SB4203

Voter Empowerment Act of 2026 Voter Registration Efficiency Act Automatic Voter Registration Act of 2026 Voter Confidence and Increased Accessibility Act of 2026 Democracy Restoration Act of 2026 Deceptive Practices and Voter Intimidation Prevention Act of 2026 Voter Registration Modernization Act of 2026

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.