WASHINGTON, DC — The League of Women Voters of the United States is deeply disappointed by the House of Representatives’ attempt to slip the dangerous Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act into the congressional budget continuing resolution to avert a government shutdown. This action undermines the integrity of our democratic processes and diminishes the transparency that Americans deserve about legislation that would affect their voting rights. 

The SAVE Act, which would require documentary proof of citizenship to register to vote in federal elections, is a thinly veiled attempt to suppress the votes of eligible citizens. The League strongly believes that this legislation is part of a larger anti-immigrant agenda that runs counter to the core values of this nation. This legislation should not have a place in a vital spending bill that will continue to keep the government working for the American people. Fortunately this  this measure failed in the US House as the bill only continues to promote disinformation and fear-mongering around our elections and perpetuate false claims about non-citizen voting in federal elections. This kind of disinformation only serves to erode voter confidence and sow more division in our democracy ahead of the significant November election.

We remain steadfast in our commitment to advocate for pro-voter policies that ensure every eligible American can exercise their right to vote without unnecessary obstacles. At a time when eligible US citizens are turning out to vote in record numbers, we need our elected officials in Congress to prioritize legislation that strengthens voting rights, such as the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, the Native American Voting Rights Act, and the Freedom to Vote Act, and DC Statehood.

We urge Congress to pass a clean bill that funds the government and continues to serve the American people. It is vital to keep our government open and functioning as we move toward yet another historical presidential election.    

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