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S. 5271

A bill to amend the Help America Vote Act of 2002 to require voters to provide photo identification.

In Plain Language

This bill requires voters to show valid photo ID to get a ballot in federal elections. If you don't have ID, you can cast a provisional ballot that only counts if you show ID within three days or sign a statement that you can't be photographed for religious reasons. For mail-in voting, you'd need to send a copy of your photo ID or the last four digits of your Social Security number with a statement that you tried but couldn't get an ID—though military voters overseas and some disabled or elderly voters are exempt. States would need to provide free access to copy machines so people can get free copies of their ID.

Official Congressional Research Service summary

This bill establishes certain photo identification requirements for voting in federal elections.Specifically, the bill prohibits a state or local election official from providing a ballot for a federal election to an individual who does not present valid physical photo identification.Next, the bill outlines the availability of provisional ballots and the requirements for counting those ballots. An individual who does not present a valid photo identification must be permitted to cast a provisional ballot. However, an election official may not determine that the individual is eligible under state law to vote in the election unless, not later than three days after casting the provisional ballot, the individual presents (1) the identification required, or (2) an affidavit attesting that the individual does not possess the identification because of a religious objection to being photographed.An election official may not allow for voting methods other than in-person voting unless the individual submits with the ballot (1) a copy of their photo identification, or (2) the last four digits of their Social Security number with an affidavit attesting that the individual is unable to obtain a copy of a valid photo identification after making reasonable efforts to obtain a copy. This prohibition shall not apply to overseas military voters and certain disabled or elderly voters.States must, to the extent practicable, ensure public access to digital imaging devices for individuals to make a free copy of their valid photo identification.These requirements take effect one day after the bill's enactment.

Sponsor

Sen. Husted, Jon [R-OH]

Cosponsors

Sen. Moody, Ashley [R-FL]
Sen. Sullivan, Dan [R-AK]

Latest action

Cloture on the motion to proceed to the measure not invoked in Senate by Yea-Nay Vote. 52 - 46. Record Vote Number: 231.

Aug 8, 2026

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