SAVE America Act

This bill would require individuals to provide documentary proof of U.S. citizenship when registering to vote and present photo identification to cast a ballot in federal elections. It proposes that states must establish programs to identify and remove noncitizens from voter rolls while providing an alternative process for individuals to demonstrate citizenship. Additionally, the measure would require voters using absentee ballots to submit copies of their identification and would establish criminal penalties and a private right of action for certain violations.

This bill affects individuals seeking to register or vote in federal elections, who must provide documentary proof of U.S. citizenship and photo identification. State governments are affected as they must implement new registration processing requirements, establish citizenship verification programs, and remove noncitizens from voter rolls. Additionally, the bill impacts individuals who vote by absentee ballot, as they are required to submit copies of identification with both their ballot requests and submissions.

• Proof of citizenship for voter registration. Prohibits states from accepting or processing applications to register for federal elections unless the applicant provides documentary proof of U.S. citizenship. Acceptable documents include identification that complies with the REAL ID Act of 2005 and indicates citizenship status.
• Alternative citizenship verification process. Requires states to establish an alternative process for individuals to demonstrate U.S. citizenship if they are unable to provide the standard required documentation at the time of registration.
• Voter roll maintenance and noncitizen removal. Directs states to take ongoing affirmative steps to ensure only citizens are registered, including the creation of programs to identify and remove noncitizens from official lists of eligible voters using various information sources.
• Photo identification requirements for federal elections. Requires individuals to present an eligible photo identification document to vote in person. Those voting by absentee ballot must submit a copy of their identification with both the ballot request and the completed ballot.
• Enforcement and criminal penalties. Establishes criminal penalties for certain offenses related to the act and provides a private right of action for specific violations of the bill's requirements.

The bill incorporates identification standards from the REAL ID Act of 2005 as a method for applicants to provide documentary proof of U.S. citizenship during the voter registration process.

The bill aims to ensure that only U.S. citizens participate in federal elections by requiring documentary proof of citizenship for voter registration and photo identification for casting ballots. It further intends to maintain the integrity of voter rolls by requiring states to establish programs to identify and remove noncitizens from official lists of eligible voters.