H.R.155 - Let America Vote Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 155, the Let America Vote Act, aims to expand voting access by requiring states to allow unaffiliated voters to participate in primary elections for federal, state, and local offices. It also seeks to prevent non-citizens from voting and includes provisions for federal funding to assist states in implementing these changes. The bill outlines restrictions on sharing voter information and clarifies the status of unaffiliated voters on registration lists.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this bill would likely increase voter turnout in primary elections, particularly among unaffiliated voters. States may need to update their election systems and procedures to comply with the new requirements. The bill could also lead to legal challenges regarding federal overreach into state election administration.
Potential Benefits
- Increased voter participation in primary elections.
- Greater inclusion of unaffiliated voters in the electoral process.
- Enhanced transparency and security of voter information.
- Potential for improved representation of voter preferences in candidate selection.
- Federal funding to support states in implementing the changes.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased administrative costs for states to update election systems.
- Possible legal challenges regarding federal authority over state elections.
- Risk of unintended consequences related to voter registration and party affiliation.
- Concerns about the impact on the nomination process of political parties.
- Potential for increased partisan conflict over election administration.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's requirement for states to allow unaffiliated voters in primary elections could be viewed under the scope of Congress's power to regulate federal elections, as outlined in Article I, Section 4. However, some may argue that it infringes upon states' rights to manage their own elections, reserved by the Tenth Amendment. The prohibition of non-citizen voting aligns with the understanding of citizenship as a requirement for suffrage, though not explicitly stated in the original Constitution but implied through historical context and subsequent amendments.
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).