Texas considers requiring citizenship proof for voter registration
Share this @internewscast.com


AUSTIN (KXAN) — Texas lawmakers are reviewing legislation that would require people to show proof of citizenship to register to vote.

Some activist groups said they’re concerned the policy outlined in Senate Bill 16 and House Bill 5337 will end up blocking eligible Texans from voting.

The bills do not provide a way to submit documentation online. It can only be done in person, through mail or over the phone, according to SB 16.

Under the legislation, voters would need to provide the following when showing up at the polls, as stated in SB 16:

  • a copy of a U.S. passport;
  • a passport card;
  • a certified copy of a birth certificate issued by a U.S. state or territory;
  • “United States citizenship papers issued to the person”
  • identification issued by the U.S. agency responsible for citizenship and immigration; or
  • “for citizens abroad, a certificate of report of birth or consular report of birth abroad” issued by the U.S. Department of State

Texas has more than 18 million registered voters, according to The Texas Tribune.

“We need to find a way to allow people to make voting easier, not harder, not creating barriers,” said Chase Bearden, executive direction with Coalition of Texans with Disabilities.

Supporters of the legislation, like Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, said the policy will maintain Texas election integrity, allowing citizens to be confident in the outcome of state elections.

“This issue is not controversial; only citizens should vote in Texas elections. I thank Sen. Hughes for his continued leadership in ensuring Texas elections are more secure than ever,” Patrick said in a statement on April 1.

SB 16 passed in the Senate in early April and is pending in the House elections committee, along with House Bill 5337.

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like

Local Veterans Commemorate Beirut Bombing Anniversary: Honoring the Fallen and Reflecting on History

In Kingsport, Tennessee, an event was recently held to commemorate the 42nd…

Local Star Quarterback from New Hampstead Shines in SSU Homecoming Game

SAVANNAH, Ga. – The Savannah State Tigers are gearing up for their…

Live at 10 a.m.: Trooper Steve Discusses School Bus Safety with Osceola Deputy

OSCEOLA COUNTY, Fla. – Today’s coverage takes us back to Osceola County,…

Trump Halts Trade Negotiations with Canada Following Reagan Tariff Advertisement

On Thursday, President Trump announced the cessation of trade discussions with Canada,…

Tragic Accident Claims Lives of Illinois Politician Darren Bailey’s Son and Family Members

In a tragic turn of events, former Illinois state senator and Republican…

Japan’s Prime Minister Commits to Strengthening Defense Amid Growing Regional Challenges

In Tokyo, newly appointed Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi delivered her inaugural…

US Supersonic B-1 Bombers Make Strategic Flight Near Venezuelan Coast

WASHINGTON – In a display of military might, the U.S. sent two…

Pentagon Boosts Rio Grande Security with Enhanced Coast Guard Patrols: A Strategic Response

The U.S. Coast Guard plans to hold a press conference on Thursday…

ETSU Unveils Ultimate One-Stop Hub to Revolutionize Student Support Services

In a move that aligns perfectly with its mission, East Tennessee State…

Experience Coca-Cola Night at the Georgia-Carolina State Fair: Enjoy Thursday Admission for Just $7

AUGUSTA, Ga. – NewsChannel 6’s Brad Means is on the scene at…

Urgent Alert: Virginia Declares State of Emergency Over Imminent SNAP Benefits Crisis

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — Virginia has declared a state of emergency on…

Stay Alert: Tropical Storm Melissa Intensifies, Tampa Bay Prepares for Impact

VALRICO, Fla. (WFLA) — The National Hurricane Center has issued a hurricane…