The SAVE Act: A Solution in Search of a Problem or a Threat to Voter Access?

"Democracy is not safeguarded by barriers—it thrives when every voice is heard and every vote is counted." - Mary Coughlin

In the ever-evolving landscape of American democracy, a new piece of legislation has sparked controversy and concern: the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act, also known as H.R. 22. This bill, introduced in Congress, proposes strict new requirements for voter registration, mandating that individuals provide documentary proof of U.S. citizenship before they can register to vote in federal elections. While supporters claim the bill is necessary to protect election integrity, a closer look reveals that it could disproportionately disenfranchise millions of eligible voters—especially women, seniors, Black and Indigenous communities, and low-income individuals.

The Reality: Do Non-Citizens Actually Vote?

One of the key arguments behind the SAVE Act is the concern that non-citizens may be registering and voting in federal elections. However, multiple studies and audits have debunked this claim:

• A Brennan Center for Justice study found only 30 cases of suspected non-citizen voting out of 23.5 million ballots cast in the 2016 election—just 0.0001% of the vote.

• In North Carolina, an election audit found only 41 instances of non-citizens voting out of 4.8 million votes cast.

• Other state and federal investigations have consistently concluded that non-citizen voting is statistically negligible.

These findings underscore a critical point: there is no widespread non-citizen voting problem in the U.S.. Instead, the SAVE Act appears to be targeting a nonexistent issue while creating real barriers for eligible voters.

How the SAVE Act Could Disenfranchise Voters

While the bill is framed as a protective measure, its true impact could be devastating for voter access. Here's why:

1. Women, Seniors, and People of Color Will Face the Greatest Burdens

Millions of eligible voters, particularly women who have changed their last name, elderly individuals who lack access to original birth certificates, and Black and Indigenous communities with historically lower access to documentation, may struggle to provide the required paperwork. Studies show:

• 11% of Americans of color lack immediate access to citizenship documents compared to 8% of white Americans.

• Nearly 9% of voting-age Black Americans lack a birth certificate or passport compared to 5.5% of white Americans.

• 69 million women have changed their last name due to marriage or divorce, meaning their birth certificate may not match their current name.

2. Increased Barriers to Voter Registration

Most states currently allow voters to register by attesting to their citizenship under penalty of perjury, and election officials can verify eligibility through existing databases. The SAVE Act would dismantle this system, making registration significantly harder for:

• Naturalized citizens who may not have immediate access to paperwork.

• Elderly voters who may have lost or never had official documents.

• Low-income individuals who cannot afford the fees associated with obtaining new government records.

3. The SAVE Act Could Eliminate Online and Mail-In Registration

With strict documentation requirements, online and mail-in voter registration may no longer be viable options, forcing all voters to register in person with physical paperwork. This is especially concerning for rural communities, people with disabilities, and those with limited transportation access.

The Bigger Picture: A Pattern of Voter Suppression

The SAVE Act is part of a broader trend of restrictive voting laws that disproportionately impact historically marginalized groups. By shifting the focus away from real threats to democracy—such as gerrymandering, voter roll purges, and election subversion—this bill serves as a distraction that fuels voter suppression efforts.

What You Can Do to Protect Your Right to Vote

1. Check Your Voter Registration – Make sure your registration is current at nass.org/can-I-vote.

2. Gather Required Documents Early – If this law advances, make sure you have a valid passport, birth certificate, or other proof of citizenship.

3. Contact Your Representatives – Call or email your elected officials to voice opposition to the SAVE Act.

4. Educate Others – Share this information with friends, family, and your community to ensure they’re informed and prepared.

5. Support Voting Rights Organizations – Groups like the Brennan Center for Justice, League of Women Voters, and Fair Fight Action are fighting for accessible elections.

Final Thoughts: Protecting the Vote for All

Our democracy is strongest when every eligible voter has a fair and equal opportunity to participate. The SAVE Act, despite its name, does not safeguard democracy—it threatens it. By raising awareness, mobilizing action, and ensuring that our communities are prepared, we can stand against voter suppression and protect the fundamental right to vote.

Let’s make sure every voice is heard and every vote is counted. Share this post, talk about it, and take action today!

Democracy is not a spectator sport—it thrives when we stand up, speak out, and take action. The SAVE Act is not just about voting; it’s about who gets to have a voice in shaping our future. Let’s ensure that every eligible voter can access the ballot, because when we protect the vote, we protect each other.

Mary

P.S.: You have the power to be a force for change. Becoming a Trauma-Informed Professional (TIP) isn’t just about neonatal care—it’s about advocating for justice, equity, and human dignity in every space you occupy. Join me in standing up for voting rights and empowering our communities. Check your voter registration, educate your network, and let’s defend democracy together! 🗳️💙

#BeATIP #ProtectTheVote #DemocracyForAll