Bill > SB0348

This bill enhances Tennessee's voter registration citizenship verification process by requiring new and existing voters to provide documentary proof of United States citizenship. Starting July 1, 2025, the state's coordinator of elections must monthly compare the voter registration database with various state and federal databases, including the Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) program, to identify potential non-citizens. If potential non-citizens are identified, county election commissions must send certified mail notices to these voters, who then have 30 days to provide acceptable proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate, U.S. passport, or naturalization documentation. If voters do not respond or provide proof, they will be purged from voter rolls, though they can appeal the decision through a state election commission hearing where they must appear in person or electronically and present citizenship documentation. The bill also requires voter registration forms to include an attestation of citizenship and eligibility, signed under penalty of perjury. The goal is to prevent non-U.S. citizens from voting by implementing a rigorous verification and challenge process, with the added requirement that any determination of non-citizenship becomes a public record and may be reported to district attorneys for potential legal action.

Government Affairs

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=SB0348&ga=114