Congresswoman Torres Condemns Republican Rejection of Key Amendments to SAVE Act to Protect Americans’ Right to Vote
Ensuring Americans Continue to Have Access to Voting
Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Norma Torres, a member of the House Administration Committee that oversees federal elections, condemned House Republicans’ refusal to consider series of important amendments to the SAVE Act aimed at ensuring all eligible Americans, regardless of zip code, financial situation, or choosing to change your name after marriage, can participate in our democracy and vote.
The House Republican-led SAVE Act would disenfranchise countless American citizens and cause massive logistical roadblocks for the 69 million women who have changed their name and do not have a matching birth certificate. The SAVE Act would require every American citizen registering to vote – whether a new registration or an updated one based on a move, a party change, or a name change – to provide an election official with, for the most part, (1) a passport, or (2) a birth certificate paired with a current photo identification.
Alongside a few other uncommon documents, providing this documentary proof of citizenship, in person at an election office would be the only way for American citizens to register to vote under the SAVE Act.
In response, Congresswoman Torres' amendments reflect her commitment to making certain that every eligible voter, regardless of their circumstances, can fully participate in the democratic process.
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Amendment #1: Exemption for States with Americans Lacking Access to Voter Registration Sites or Proof of Citizenship
This amendment provides an exemption to states where residents lack access to voter registration sites or the financial means to acquire proof of citizenship, ensuring that States will not be burdened by the Act’s requirements. Regardless of zip code or financial means, all Americans deserve the equal right to vote and be heard in our democracy.
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Amendment #2: Preserving State and Tribal Authority and Ensuring Transparency
This amendment affirms the longstanding authority of state and tribal governments to determine acceptable forms of identification for voting. It also makes voter list purges voluntary rather than mandatory, protecting eligible voters from being wrongfully removed from voter rolls. Additionally, the amendment requires states to notify individuals who are removed from the voter rolls and create an accessible online platform where citizens can verify their registration status.
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Amendment #3: Expanding Voter Accommodations to Address Additional Barriers
This amendment expands accommodations under the SAVE Act to not only include individuals with disabilities, but also accommodate family members who assist individuals with disabilities, individuals who lack access to transportation to registration sites, and individuals facing financial or other difficulties in acquiring proof of citizenship. These expanded provisions will help ensure that all voters, regardless of their personal challenges, continue to have access to the voting process.
“Voting is the cornerstone of our democracy, and we must ensure that every eligible American has the ability to participate in elections without facing unnecessary barriers,” said Congresswoman Torres. “While I oppose this bill as it would suppress voters, especially women, these amendments are designed to protect those who might otherwise be excluded and to make sure that voter registration is accessible, especially those from marginalized and underserved communities. I’m disappointed, but not surprised, that Republicans refused to allow for their consideration, but I will continue to fight to protect the integrity of our elections while ensuring everyone has a voice.”
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