Voter ID Act would require photo ID for federal elections nationwide
Placed on the calendarH.R. 9368Latest action
Sponsor: Bryan Steil · Representative · WI
AIDecoded by AI · checked against the recordRead the official text
Official title: Voter ID Act
119th Congress
Topics: Government & democracy
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
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The Voter ID Act would require photo identification to vote in federal elections, with limited exceptions.
55-second read · 5 questions answered below
What does this do?
The bill requires voters to show a valid photo ID, such as a driver's license, passport, military ID, or tribal ID, before voting in federal elections. In-person voters without ID could cast a provisional ballot but must show ID or sign a religious-objection affidavit within three days. Mail voters must submit a copy of their ID, provide the last four digits of their Social Security number with a sworn statement, or get their ballot notarized.
Who does it affect?
This affects all voters in federal elections, particularly elderly, low-income, disabled, or rural voters who may lack ID, as well as state and local election officials and state and tribal governments. Overseas military voters and certain voters with disabilities are exempted.
Why does it matter?
The requirement could make voting harder for people without current photo ID unless they complete additional steps like affidavits or notarization. States would also need to update registration systems and polling procedures to comply.
What does it cost, and who pays?
The bill creates a federal grant program to help states and Native American tribes cover the cost of issuing free photo IDs to people who cannot afford the usual fee.
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Read the official bill on Congress.govMake the call
Where does it stand?
- IntroducedJun 18, 2026
- House committee
- House voteYou are here · Jul 15, 2026
- Senate
- The president's desk
Right now: it was placed on the , and the official record shows no floor action on it since. If the Senate changes it, it goes back to the House before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 653.