Law Requiring Proof of Citizenship for Voting to Be Introduced in the United States

Washington (USA) — The Trump administration in the United States is preparing to introduce the “Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act” (SAVE Act). Under this law, American citizens will be required to provide proof of citizenship to register as voters. Since this process resembles the special intensive revision of the voter list carried out in India, comparisons are being drawn between the two.

What Is the ‘SAVE’ Bill ?

Currently, the election system in the United States is based on a federal structure, in which each state has the freedom to conduct elections according to its own procedures. However, under the U.S. Constitution, Congress has the authority to change election rules. President Donald Trump is now attempting to alter the election process using his majority. According to him, these changes could enable the Republican Party to remain in power for a long time.

According to the proposed bill, individuals registering as voters will have to present proof of citizenship along with valid government photo identification such as an updated driver’s license, a valid U.S. passport, or a birth certificate. At present, voter registration can also be completed through email; however, under the new law, citizens will be required to register in person at the office of election authorities and present the necessary documents. Additionally, every U.S. state will have to submit its voter list to the Department of Homeland Security. The department will verify the lists against its database. As a result, the election process is expected to become more centralized.

Fear That Millions Could Lose Voting Rights

The opposition Democratic Party has opposed the law. Democratic leaders say they will not allow the bill to be passed. Organizations working on voting rights and civil society groups argue that such documentation requirements could deprive millions of people of their voting rights, particularly affecting minority communities. According to one survey, one out of every ten voters may not be able to produce documents such as a birth certificate, passport, or proof of citizenship.