Senate Advances Save Act in Bipartisan Vote to Restrict Noncitizen Voting
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The United States Senate voted 52-48 on Thursday to advance the Save Act, a legislative measure aimed at requiring documentary proof of citizenship for federal voter registration. The bill, formally titled the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act, seeks to amend the National Voter Registration Act of 1993.
What is the Save Act?
The Save Act mandates that states verify citizenship status through a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or a government-issued photo ID before processing a voter registration application. The bill also requires states to remove noncitizens from existing voter rolls.
Where did the vote occur?
The procedural vote took place on the Senate floor at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., following weeks of committee hearings and floor debate.
When did this happen?
The vote occurred at approximately 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Thursday, after Majority Leader Charles Schumer allowed a motion to proceed. The bill now heads to the House of Representatives for concurrent consideration.
Why is this being pursued?
Proponents, including Senate sponsor Mike Lee of Utah, argue the Save Act is necessary to maintain election integrity by preventing noncitizens from participating in federal elections, a practice already prohibited under U.S. law. Critics, including Senate Minority Whip Dick Durbin of Illinois, contend the bill is a solution in search of a problem and could disenfranchise millions of eligible minority voters who lack easy access to the required documents.
How will the bill proceed?
The Save Act will now undergo a formal conference process between the Senate and House versions, with a final vote expected before the November general election. The White House has indicated a likely veto if the bill reaches the president’s desk, citing concerns over voter suppression.