US Federal 2023-2024 Regular Session

US Federal House Bill HB4474

Introduced
7/6/23  

Caption

Confirmation Of Congressional Observer Access Act of 2023

Impact

If passed, HB4474 would reinforce existing practices surrounding congressional oversight of election administration by legally mandating state compliance. It stipulates that designated observers can view all facets of the election process including polling places and ballot handling, thereby creating a more robust framework for federal oversight. This move is intended to enhance the integrity of elections and provide congress with the necessary information to address any potential disputes arising from election outcomes.

Summary

House Bill 4474, known as the Confirmation Of Congressional Observer Access Act of 2023, seeks to amend the Help America Vote Act of 2002 to formally require states to provide access to designated congressional election observers. These observers would be granted full access to observe all aspects of election administration procedures, particularly during federal elections. The bill is grounded in the constitutional authority of Congress to oversee the election processes for its members, aiming to ensure transparency and integrity in the electoral process.

Contention

Despite the intention of the bill to bolster election oversight, it may face opposition from state authorities concerned about federal overreach into state-administered election processes. Critics may argue that the requirement for congressional observers could complicate local election administration, infringe on state control, and raise questions about the practical implications of increased federal presence during elections. Consequently, the balance between federal oversight and states' rights will likely be a significant point of contention in legislative discussions surrounding HB4474.

Companion Bills

US HB6513

Similar To Confirmation Of Congressional Observer Access Act of 2024 COCOA Act of 2024

US HB4494

Related Ensuring Faith in Our Elections Act Promoting Free and Fair Elections Act Solving an Overlooked Loophole in Votes for Executives (SOLVE) Act

US HB4563

Related ACE Act End Zuckerbucks Act of 2023 Solving an Overlooked Loophole in Votes for Executives (SOLVE) Act Promoting Free and Fair Elections Act Don't Weaponize the IRS Act American Confidence in Elections Act

Previously Filed As

US HB1170

Congressional Access to Military Posts Act of 2025

US HB2642

Improving Veterans Access to Congressional Services Act of 2025

US SB3205

Improving Veterans Access to Congressional Services Act of 2025

US HB4337

Congressional Oversight Access Act

US HB7431

Congressional Civics Act of 2026

US PR26-0573

Office of Employee Appeals Philip A. McNamara Confirmation Resolution of 2026

US PR26-0454

Director of the Office of Veterans Affairs Julian Purdy Confirmation Resolution of 2025

US HB8427

Congressional Pension Integrity Act of 2026

US PR26-0386

Domestic Violence Fatality Review Board Ashley Joyner Chavous Confirmation Resolution of 2025

US PR26-0168

Board of Trustees of the University of the District of Columbia Michael Dannenberg Confirmation Resolution of 2025

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US HB127

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