Netizens raise concerns over the newly passed SAVE Act in America: Here's why

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The U.S. House has passed the SAVE Act, sponsored by Rep. Chip Roy, aiming to tighten voter registration by requiring proof of citizenship. This amendment to the National Voter Registration Act seeks to prevent non-citizens from voting. However, the act faces criticism, particularly regarding potential hurdles for married women who have changed their names.

In order to enforce stricter voter registration requirements across the states, the United States the house passed the proposed SAVE Act. Sponsored by Rep. Chip Roy, the legislation cleared the chamber in a 220-208 vote. Short for Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act, the bill amends the National Voter Registration Act of 1993 (NVRA) and now requires anyone who registers to vote, to provide proof of American citizenship.

“In order to preserve this republic, we must uphold what it means to be able to vote in a U.S. election,” said Roy in a statement. “I am grateful that my colleagues answered the call and passed the SAVE Act, as this serves as a critical first step to ensure that we maintain election integrity throughout our country.”

Image credits: Getty Images

People applying to register have to submit one of the many specific forms of ID mentioned in the bill. These include a U.S. passport, a military ID listing the U.S. as birthplace, and a government-issued photo ID paired with the birth certificate. A REAL ID-compliant driver’s license indicating citizenship can also be used but there are very few states that currently issue such IDs.

Image credits: Getty Images

Well, the problem with the act arises majorly for women, many of whom have changed their names after marriage. According to a study by the Pew Research Center, 79% of women in opposite-sex marriages have taken their husband’s last name after their marriage. While the bill does permit supplemental documents such as marriage certificates, the critics suggest that the vague language could pose hurdles in the future. Additionally, not all couples have marriage certificates and while the bill has not been enacted yet, if it does, they might have to scour to obtain the certificate immediately.

Various netizens have taken to X to present their opinions against the SAVE Act. “The SAVE Act, a.k.a the Save the Republicans’ Asses Act, is a shameless attempt to block Americans—especially married women—from voting. Requiring birth certificates to cast a ballot? That’s not election security. That’s voter suppression” wrote a user on X. “Republicans who vote FOR the SAVE Act should be asked why they are opposed to married women voting” added another.

The key motivation behind the act is to prevent non-U.S. citizens from participating in the U.S. elections. While the implementation of the act may pose a problem for married women, it will prevent non-U.S. citizens from casting their votes, which is an aspect of the act many seem to be supporting. “If you are not a US citizen, then you SHOULD NOT be voting in US elections. It’s that simple” wrote Congressman Byron Donalds.

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