US Federal 2023-2024 Regular Session

US Federal House Bill HB959

Introduced
2/9/23  

Caption

To repeal the provisions of the National Voter Registration Act of 1993 other than the provisions requiring States to conduct a general program that makes a reasonable effort to remove the names of ineligible voters from the official lists of eligible voters in the State and the provisions imposing criminal penalties for fraudulent voter registration or voting activities.

Impact

The implications of HB 959 could lead to changes in how states handle voter registration lists and the degree to which federal oversight impacts these processes. By repealing the broader provisions of the National Voter Registration Act, the bill aims to return control of voter registration management to state governments. This rollback may alter existing protections designed to ensure fair and equitable access to the voting process.

Summary

House Bill 959 seeks to significantly amend the National Voter Registration Act of 1993 by repealing most of its provisions while retaining only those that require states to effectively manage the voter registration process. Specifically, it proposes to restore certain rules regarding the removal of ineligible voters based on death or change of residence. This bill, introduced by Mr. Steube, reflects a desire to streamline voter registration compliance by limiting federal mandates on states.

Contention

There may be notable contention surrounding HB 959, particularly regarding the balance between federal election oversight and state autonomy. Critics argue that repealing elements of the National Voter Registration Act could lead to confusion and inconsistency in voter registration practices across states, potentially undermining electoral integrity and access. Proponents, however, might argue that this bill allows for greater flexibility for states to manage their own voter rolls and respond to local conditions without federal interference.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

US AB574

Verifying a voter’s change of address and registration status and removing ineligible voters from the official voter registration list. (FE)

US SB567

Verifying a voter’s change of address and registration status and removing ineligible voters from the official voter registration list. (FE)

US AB595

Compliance with the federal Help America Vote Act, voter registration data sharing agreements, removing ineligible voters from the official voter registration list, and fees for obtaining the official voter registration list. (FE)

US SB595

Compliance with the federal Help America Vote Act, voter registration data sharing agreements, removing ineligible voters from the official voter registration list, and fees for obtaining the official voter registration list. (FE)

US HB1753

To Amend The Law Concerning Voter Registration; To Opt-out Of The National Voter Registration Act Of 1993; And To Amend Provisions Of Arkansas Constitution, Amendment 51, § 5.

US HB156

Restoring Faith in Elections Act This bill establishes certain standards for voting, including voting by mail, in federal elections. It also establishes certain requirements for voter registration and maintenance of official lists of eligible voters. First, the bill establishes certain requirements for voting by mail in federal elections, including by requiring mail-in ballots to be received by the time the polls close on election day. Additionally, the bill makes it unlawful to possess or return a mail-in ballot completed by another person (commonly referred to as ballot harvesting), with exceptions. A violator is subject to criminal penalties—a fine, a prison term of up to one year, or both. Further, the bill establishes certain requirements for reporting results of federal elections, including by requiring states to count all eligible ballots within 24 hours after the election. Next, the bill provides for the automatic registration of eligible voters. The Election Assistance Commission must make grants to states to implement these automatic voter registration programs. It also requires states and jurisdictions to use standards that apply equally to all methods of voting used in federal elections, including standards related to signature verification. Finally, the bill establishes the National Deconfliction Voting Database and Clearinghouse to serve as a database and clearinghouse for voter registration records and lists of eligible voters. Additionally, each state must certify that it has removed ineligible voters from the official list of eligible voters prior to the federal election.

US HB160

Restoring Faith in Elections ActThis bill establishes certain standards for voting, including voting by mail, in federal elections. It also establishes certain requirements for voter registration and maintenance of official lists of eligible voters.First, the bill establishes certain requirements for voting by mail in federal elections, including by requiring mail-in ballots to be received by the time the polls close on election day.Additionally, the bill makes it unlawful to possess or return a mail-in ballot completed by another person (commonly referred to as ballot harvesting), with exceptions. A violator is subject to criminal penalties—a fine, a prison term of up to one year, or both.Further, the bill establishes certain requirements for reporting results of federal elections, including by requiring states to count all eligible ballots within 24 hours after the election.Next, the bill provides for the automatic registration of eligible voters. The Election Assistance Commission must make grants to states to implement these automatic voter registration programs.It also requires states and jurisdictions to use standards that apply equally to all methods of voting used in federal elections, including standards related to signature verification.Finally, the bill establishes the National Deconfliction Voting Database and Clearinghouse to serve as a database and clearinghouse for voter registration records and lists of eligible voters. Additionally, each state must certify that it has removed ineligible voters from the official list of eligible voters prior to the federal election.

US SB48

Modify provisions pertaining to the registration of voters.

US SB26058

Concerning modifications to voter registration, and, in connection therewith, eliminating the automatic voter registration provisions for default registration of electors as unaffiliated voters and requiring the registration records of elect...

US SF4084

Deceased voters removal from the statewide voter registration system requirement provision

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.