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Freedom to Vote Act
3/13/2024, 6:58 AM
Summary of Bill S 2344
Some key provisions of the Freedom to Vote Act include:
1. Automatic voter registration: The bill would require states to automatically register eligible voters when they interact with government agencies, such as when applying for a driver's license or receiving social services. 2. Same-day voter registration: The bill would allow eligible voters to register and vote on the same day, making it easier for individuals who may have missed registration deadlines to still participate in elections. 3. Expanded early voting: The bill would require states to offer at least 15 days of early voting for federal elections, giving voters more opportunities to cast their ballots at their convenience. 4. Voting rights protections: The bill includes provisions to protect against voter suppression tactics, such as strict voter ID laws and voter purges, that disproportionately impact minority and marginalized communities. 5. Election security measures: The bill includes provisions to enhance election security, such as requiring paper ballots and implementing cybersecurity measures to protect against hacking and interference. Overall, the Freedom to Vote Act aims to ensure that all eligible Americans have the opportunity to participate in the democratic process and have their voices heard in elections. The bill has garnered support from a number of lawmakers and voting rights advocates who believe that these provisions are necessary to protect and strengthen democracy in the United States.
Congressional Summary of S 2344
Freedom to Vote Act
This bill addresses voter registration and voting access, election integrity and security, redistricting, and campaign finance.
Specifically, the bill expands voter registration (e.g., automatic and same-day registration) and voting access (e.g., vote-by-mail and early voting). It also limits removing voters from voter rolls.
Next, the bill establishes Election Day as a federal holiday.
The bill declares that the right of a U.S. citizen to vote in any election for federal office shall not be denied or abridged because that individual has been convicted of a criminal offense unless, at the time of the election, such individual is serving a felony sentence.
The bill establishes certain federal criminal offenses related to voting. In particular, the bill establishes a new criminal offense for conduct (or attempted conduct) to corruptly hinder, interfere with, or prevent another person from registering to vote or helping someone register to vote.
Additionally, the bill sets forth provisions related to election security, including by requiring states to conduct post-election audits for federal elections.
The bill outlines criteria for congressional redistricting and generally prohibits mid-decade redistricting.
The bill addresses campaign finance, including by expanding the prohibition on campaign spending by foreign nationals, requiring additional disclosure of campaign-related fundraising and spending, requiring additional disclaimers regarding certain political advertising, and establishing an alternative campaign funding system for certain federal offices.





