The Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act  of 2025 (SAVE Act)  H.R. 22 was introduced on January 3, 2025, in the 119th Congress and the House is expected to vote on it this week. This bill would require U.S. citizens to present documentary proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate or passport, in order to register to vote in federal elections, creating significant barriers to voting for millions of eligible citizens. Many Americans do not have the required documentation, and this legislation would disproportionately affect marginalized communities, including people of color, low-income individuals, and women who have changed their names due to marriage. This is a direct threat to our democracy and to the right of every American to have their voice heard in the voting booth.

The SAVE Act would disenfranchise millions of American citizens, including:

• 21 million citizens do not have a birth certificate, passport, or other documents proving citizenship. In seven states, less than one-third of citizens have access to a valid passport.
• 69 million women  and 4 million men who have changed their names due to marriage would be impacted.
• U.S. citizens of color are three times more likely than white citizens to lack the necessary identification documents. For example, two-thirds of Black Americans do not possess a passport.

 

By making it harder for people to access the documents they need to vote, this bill undermines the principle of equal representation and disenfranchises vulnerable populations, exacerbating inequality in our electoral system. We must act today to protect voting rights for all citizens. We urge Congress to vote NO on the SAVE Act.

As Presbyterians, we are called to advocate for justice, equality, and the protection of the most vulnerable in society. The General Assembly has long-supported policies that promote equal access to voting for all citizens, regardless of race, socioeconomic status, or identity. The PC(USA) affirms that the right to vote is sacred and that any attempt to limit access to the ballot box is a threat to our democracy.

 

In Micah 6:8, we are reminded that God requires us “to act justly and to love mercy.” Supporting policies that ensure all citizens can participate in elections is an expression of justice and mercy.

Take action today: urge Congress to vote NO on the SAVE Act.

 

You can also help by sharing this action alert with others in your congregation or community, encouraging them to take urgent action by contacting their policymaker today.

 

The time to act is now. Together, we can protect democracy and ensure that every voice is heard.