Bill > HR156

This bill establishes new national photo identification requirements for voting in federal elections, requiring voters to present a valid photo ID when casting a ballot in person or submit a copy of photo ID when voting by mail. The bill mandates that state and local election officials cannot provide a ballot to an individual without proper photo identification, though provisional ballots are allowed if voters can provide the required ID within three days or submit an affidavit. Acceptable forms of photo ID include state driver's licenses, state identification cards, U.S. passports, military IDs, and other government-issued photo identifications. To address potential barriers, the bill requires states to provide free photo identification to individuals who cannot afford or obtain one and ensure public access to digital imaging devices for making ID copies. The legislation also requires states to notify voter registration applicants about the new ID requirements. The provisions will take effect for federal elections in 2026, giving states time to implement the new requirements. The bill's supporters argue that photo ID requirements are necessary to prevent voter fraud and are consistent with identification requirements for many other activities, citing that over 160 nations and most U.S. states already have similar voter ID laws.

Government Affairs

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/156/all-info