H.R.154 - Election Day Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 154, the Election Day Act, proposes amending Title 5 of the United States Code to establish Election Day as a federal holiday. This bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on January 3, 2025, by Mr. Fitzpatrick and Mrs. Dingell and referred to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.
The primary goal is to make it easier for citizens to vote by providing them with a day off from work or school. This could potentially increase voter turnout during federal elections.
The bill's short title is the "Election Day Act."
Expected Effects
If enacted, H.R. 154 would add Election Day to the list of federal holidays. This means that federal employees would have a paid day off, and many businesses and schools might also close.
The intended effect is to increase voter turnout by reducing barriers to voting, such as work or school schedules. The actual effect will depend on how states and private employers respond to the new federal holiday.
Potential Benefits
- Increased Voter Turnout: Making Election Day a federal holiday could remove a significant barrier to voting for many citizens who struggle to find time to vote due to work or other obligations.
- Civic Engagement: A national holiday focused on elections could raise awareness and promote civic engagement, encouraging more people to participate in the democratic process.
- Symbolic Importance: Designating Election Day as a holiday underscores the importance of voting and democratic participation in American society.
- Potential Economic Boost: Increased travel and spending related to the holiday could provide a small boost to the economy.
- Reduced Wait Times: With more people having the day off, polling places may experience shorter wait times, making the voting process more convenient.
Potential Disadvantages
- Economic Costs: Closing businesses and giving federal employees a paid day off could have economic costs, potentially reducing productivity.
- Disruption to Schedules: The new holiday could disrupt work and school schedules, requiring adjustments for families and businesses.
- Potential for Abuse: Some might use the holiday for non-voting activities, undermining the intended purpose.
- Uneven Impact: The impact may vary across states and industries, with some sectors experiencing more disruption than others.
- No Guarantee of Increased Turnout: Making Election Day a holiday does not guarantee increased voter turnout, as other factors such as voter registration and political interest also play a role.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the spirit of the Constitution by promoting greater participation in the electoral process. While the Constitution does not explicitly mandate a federal holiday for elections, Article I, Section 2 emphasizes the importance of the people choosing representatives. Making voting more accessible aligns with the democratic principles of the Constitution.
Amendment I protects the right of the people to peaceably assemble and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances, which includes participating in elections. By making it easier for citizens to vote, the bill indirectly supports this right.
However, the Constitution leaves the specifics of election administration largely to the states. Therefore, the federal government's role in mandating a holiday for elections could be seen as an area where federal and state powers intersect.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).