The Florida legislature has passed a new voter registration law requiring proof of citizenship, similar to the federal Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act. The bill passed the state House 77-28 and the Senate 27-12, with Governor Ron DeSantis expected to sign it into law.
Key Takeaways
Florida's legislature has passed a new voter registration law requiring proof of citizenship, similar to the federal SAVE Act. The bill passed both houses and is expected to be signed by Governor Ron DeSantis.
- Florida's new voter ID law requires birth certificates or passports for registration.
- The law will take effect in 2027 and verify citizenship using government databases like Real ID.
- Opponents argue the law could disenfranchise thousands, particularly Black and brown voters, college students, and seniors.
- Governor DeSantis supports the bill, calling it a step toward election integrity.
The new law requires Florida residents to show proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate or passport, when registering to vote. The citizenship of all registered voters will be verified using government databases like Real ID when the bill takes effect in 2027. If no citizenship document is found during verification, local elections supervisors must notify the voter by mail, who then must provide proof to their county elections office.
Supporters argue that the law enhances election integrity and prevents noncitizens from voting. Governor DeSantis voiced his support on X, stating it would further fortify Florida as a leader in election integrity. State Sen. Erin Grall, one of the bill's sponsors, emphasized that it puts greater trust into the system.
Critics contend that the law could disenfranchise thousands, particularly Black and brown voters, college students, and seniors. Democratic elections lawyer Marc Elias announced plans to sue if the bill is enacted. Carmen Daugherty of Advancement Project argued that the bill will suppress votes from marginalized communities.
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