H.R.55 - To repeal the National Voter Registration Act of 1993. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 55 proposes to repeal the National Voter Registration Act of 1993 (NVRA), also known as the "Motor Voter Act." The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives by Mr. Biggs of Arizona, along with Mr. Perry. The NVRA currently requires states to offer voter registration opportunities at motor vehicle agencies and other public assistance offices.
Expected Effects
If enacted, H.R. 55 would eliminate the NVRA's requirements. This would likely lead to decreased voter registration rates, particularly among low-income individuals and those who access services through public assistance agencies. The change could disproportionately affect voter turnout in certain demographics.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially reduces administrative costs associated with NVRA compliance for states.
- Could lead to a more streamlined voter registration process in some states, depending on how they choose to manage registration without the NVRA mandates.
- May address concerns about non-citizens being registered to vote, if such concerns exist and are related to NVRA implementation.
- Could allow states to implement voter ID laws without the NVRA requirements making registration easier.
- Potentially reduces the burden on DMVs and other agencies.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Likely decreases voter registration rates, especially among low-income and minority populations.
- Could create barriers to voting for individuals who rely on public assistance agencies for registration opportunities.
- May disproportionately affect voter turnout in states with historically low registration rates.
- Could increase the administrative burden on individuals seeking to register to vote.
- Potentially leads to decreased participation in elections and reduced representation of certain demographics.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The constitutionality of repealing the NVRA is debatable. Article I, Section 2 of the Constitution grants states the power to set voter qualifications, but the NVRA was enacted to prevent discriminatory practices. Repealing the NVRA could be argued as infringing upon the right to vote, particularly if it leads to discriminatory outcomes, potentially conflicting with the 14th and 15th Amendments. However, proponents might argue that the repeal returns power to the states, aligning with principles of federalism.
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).