Washington, D.C. – Congressman Jake Ellzey (TX-06) voted in favor of the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act, legislation that strengthens election integrity by requiring proof of U.S. citizenship to register to vote in federal elections.

The SAVE Act amends the National Voter Registration Act to require states to verify U.S. citizenship when registering individuals to vote in federal elections. The legislation also provides states with tools to remove non-citizens from voter rolls and establishes penalties for officials who knowingly register non-citizens.

“Secure elections protect every legal voter and strengthen our Republic,” said Congressman Ellzey. “Proof of citizenship is not optional. It is fundamental. The SAVE Act ensures that only American citizens decide American elections.”

Since passage of the legislation in the House, misinformation has circulated about what the SAVE Act actually does. The facts are clear:

• MYTH: The SAVE Act prevents married women or individuals who have changed their name from voting.
  FACT: False. Updated identification such as a REAL ID, passport, or government-issued ID showing place of birth are sufficient. States are required to provide a process to address name discrepancies.
• MYTH: Everyone will need a passport to vote.
  FACT: No. Acceptable documentation includes a REAL ID, military ID with proof of U.S. birth, or other government-issued identification that shows U.S. birthplace.
• MYTH: Non-citizen voting is not a real issue.
  FACT: States have removed non-citizens from voter rolls in recent years. Even one unlawful ballot undermines public trust in our elections.
• MYTH: It is already illegal for non-citizens to vote, so this bill is unnecessary.
  FACT: Current law limits states’ ability to verify citizenship during voter registration. The SAVE Act closes that gap and provides states with clear enforcement tools.

Congressman Ellzey has consistently supported policies that secure the border, enforce the rule of law, and protect the integrity of American elections.