Millions of Eligible Voters Could Face Barriers Under New Citizenship Proof Law
Columbus, Ohio — Joshua Bogdan, a lifelong U.S. citizen from New Hampshire, has voted in multiple elections without issue. But last fall, he encountered an unexpected hurdle when he attempted to cast his ballot in Portsmouth. Despite presenting his driver’s license, Bogdan was told he needed a passport or birth certificate to prove his citizenship under New Hampshire’s new voting law.
The 31-year-old’s experience offers a glimpse into a potential nationwide shift as Congressional Republicans push the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act. The bill, backed by former President Donald Trump, would require voters to provide documentary proof of citizenship to register for federal elections. Critics argue that the law could disenfranchise millions of eligible voters, particularly those without easy access to required documents.
The Push for “Election Integrity”
The SAVE Act, which passed the U.S. House last month on a largely partisan vote, is slated for Senate debate next week. Supporters claim the bill is necessary to prevent voter fraud, though noncitizen voting in federal elections is already illegal and extremely rare. The legislation’s proponents argue that requiring citizenship proof is a commonsense safeguard.
However, critics warn that the law would create significant barriers. According to a 2025 University of Maryland study, an estimated 21.3 million eligible voters lack easy access to documents proving their citizenship, including birth certificates or passports.
Document Hurdles and Hidden Costs
The SAVE Act lists several acceptable documents, but many come with caveats. For example, a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license would suffice only if it explicitly indicates U.S. citizenship—a feature available in just five states. Military IDs must be accompanied by service records showing birthplace, which are not typically included in standard discharge documents.
Passports are the most straightforward option, but only about half of American adults possess one, according to the State Department. Obtaining or renewing a passport can take four to six weeks and cost upwards of $165, plus expedited fees for urgent needs.
Birth certificates, while cheaper, also pose challenges. The SAVE Act requires certified copies issued by state or local governments, not the informal versions often provided by hospitals. Processing times vary widely, with some states facing backlogs of several months.
Potential Disenfranchisement
Rebekah Caruthers, president of the Fair Elections Center, warns that the SAVE Act could disproportionately affect marginalized groups, including married women who changed their names, people of color, and rural voters. “This bill would deny millions of eligible Americans their fundamental freedom to vote,” Caruthers said in an email.
The legislation also lacks funding to help states and local governments implement the changes or educate voters. Bogdan, who was eventually able to vote using his birth certificate, emphasized the need for better communication. “Young voters like myself don’t always carry around our birth certificates,” he said. “Government notices could prevent unnecessary disenfranchisement.”
A Divisive Debate
As the Senate prepares to debate the SAVE Act next week, the bill’s potential impact on voter access remains a contentious issue. While supporters frame it as a necessary safeguard, opponents argue it risks undermining democracy by creating unnecessary barriers for millions of eligible Americans.
The outcome of the vote could have significant implications for the 2024 elections and beyond, shaping how the U.S. balances election security with voter accessibility.
— Reported by Nexio News
