The overhaul of a major U.S. elections bill that seeks to ensure voting eligibility has divided congressional Republicans and Democrats over the fairness and viability of the proposed legislation, which would include multiple layers of verification if it becomes law. The bill, called the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act, or SAVE Act, would require Americans to provide documentary proof of U.S. citizenship when registering to vote in federal elections and would mandate that states remove noncitizens from voter rolls, among other changes. Voters additionally would need to present government-issued identification such as a REAL ID, passport, military ID, or other official photo identification when casting a ballot.
Supporters of the bill argue that it strengthens election integrity. Critics warn it could disenfranchise eligible voters who lack ready access to the required forms of documentation.
