By Jessica Jones Capparell
There is a new attempt to require burdensome documentary proof of citizenship to register to vote in federal elections.
We need your help to stop it.
The Election Assistance Commission (EAC) is considering a petition asking it to initiate a process that would add documentary proof of citizenship to the federal voter registration form. This proposal would force Americans to show specific, costly, hard-to-access documents like passports before registering to vote. An estimated 21 million Americans could be shut out from the ballot box, particularly rural voters, students, women, communities of color, and members of the military.
Tell the EAC This is Voter Suppression
Requiring proof of citizenship to register to vote in federal elections creates unnecessary barriers for many eligible voters. It’s already illegal for noncitizens to vote, and asking citizens to provide additional documentation is an obstacle that could disproportionately affect vulnerable groups like:
Military families, who are often relocated, and for whom proving their citizenship can be complicated and burdensome.
People who have lost essential documents due to disasters or personal hardships, for whom this requirement only adds stress to an already difficult situation.
Women who’ve changed their name due to marriage, who could face challenges proving their identity or citizenship in ways that aren’t fair or practical.
This isn’t just about systems — it’s about ensuring that all eligible Americans, regardless of their circumstances, have the opportunity to make their voices heard in our democracy. Voting is a fundamental right, and we should be working to make it as accessible as possible, not putting up more barriers.
Right now, the EAC is taking public comments from people like you to gather input on whether they should adopt this anti-voter initiative. They need to hear from you about how damaging this policy would be before they make their decision. It only takes a couple of minutes to make your voice heard.
Submit a Comment to the EAC by October 20
Jessica Jones Capparell is Director of Government Affairs, League of Women Voters.