Do You Support the SAVE America Act?

The Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act, or SAVE America Act, was introduced into the U.S. House of Representatives this January. Its purpose is to amend the National Voter Registration Act of 1993 by imposing stricter requirements on who can register for and cast a vote in federal elections.

Key provisions include:

• Proof of U.S. citizenship for voter registration — individuals would need to present documentary evidence (e.g., passport, birth certificate, REAL ID showing citizenship, or other certified documents) in person when registering to vote for federal elections.
• Photo identification at the ballot box for voting in federal elections.
• Removal of non-citizens from voter rolls based on federal standards.

Supporters of the proposal argue that requiring proof of citizenship and photo ID will make elections more secure and help ensure only eligible U.S. citizens vote. They describe this as a common-sense safeguard similar to other everyday ID requirements (like buying alcohol or boarding a plane). The Act’s advocates believe these measures will increase voter confidence in election outcomes, especially among voters who believe non-citizen voting could occur.

Some proponents also point out that because elections are vital to national governance, Congress should set nationwide minimum standards rather than leaving all rules entirely to the states.

Opponents, on the other hand, say the bill could block millions of eligible U.S. citizens from voting simply because they don’t have the specified documentation ready (like passports or birth certificates). They further warn that the requirements could hit low-income individuals, rural residents, people of color, and caregivers hardest — as they may face extra travel, time, and cost burdens just to register or update their registration.

Some critics call the bill a voter suppression measure rather than a necessary improvement, noting that non-citizen voting in federal elections is already extremely rare and illegal under existing law.

So what do you think? Come and share your opinion in a passionate, but respectful discussion. Or just bring your popcorn, sit back and listen to the others talk it over. We’ll have a designated speaker on each side of the motion giving opening and closing statements, and an open floor discussion in between. Zoom credentials will be provided the day of the event.