Bill would require citizenship documents and photo ID to vote in federal races

What does this do?

The bill would require people to show documents like a passport, REAL ID, birth certificate, naturalization papers, or military ID with proof of U.S. birth to register to vote in federal elections. It also creates a nationwide photo ID requirement for federal voting, in person or by mail, with the ID showing citizenship status and an ID number or partial Social Security number. States would need to verify documentation, set up backup processes, and regularly cross-check voter rolls against federal databases.

Who does it affect?

Everyday voters would need to gather and present specific documents to register and vote. Election officials would face new duties, potential liability, and coordination requirements, while states would need to update systems, forms, and list-maintenance procedures.

Why does it matter?

States would gain expanded authority to purge voters believed to be noncitizens, and new criminal penalties would apply to election officials or government employees who improperly register or assist noncitizens in voting. People lacking easy access to documents like birth certificates or passports could face extra hurdles registering or voting.

Where does it stand?