H.R.22 SAVE Act

Representative Chip Roy (R-TX-21) introduced and sponsored the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act (SAVE Act, H.R.22) with 82 cosponsors on January 3, 2025. This legislation aims to establish stricter guidelines and verification processes to ensure that only eligible U.S. citizens are permitted to vote in federal elections.

If passed, the bill would allocate funding to states for updating voter registration systems, increasing the use of real-time cross-referencing databases, and mandating additional documentation for those seeking to register. Proponents argue that these measures would safeguard the integrity of the electoral process and reduce voter fraud, thereby boosting public confidence in election outcomes.

Opponents, however, raise concerns that the new requirements might create undue barriers for legitimate voters, including those lacking immediate access to the mandated documentation. Civil rights organizations have warned that potential delays and additional costs to secure the necessary documents could disproportionately affect marginalized communities.

Shortly after being introduced, H.R.22 was referred to the House Committee on House Administration for further review. While it has drawn significant attention due to its emphasis on election security, the ultimate fate of the SAVE Act remains uncertain as lawmakers continue to debate how best to balance voter access with enhanced verification measures.