Representative Eli Crane has joined efforts to strengthen federal election requirements, supporting legislation that would mandate proof of citizenship for voter registration nationwide.
Eli Crane announced his support for H.R. 2499, introduced by fellow Arizona Representative Abe Hamadeh in March. The bill would implement several new federal election standards based on recent executive orders.
"Arizonans have witnessed poorly-run elections firsthand, and this legislation addresses key vulnerabilities," Crane said. "We must have an efficient and trustworthy process."
Bill Requirements
The proposed legislation would establish multiple new federal election standards:
- Require proof of U.S. citizenship for federal voter registration
- Connect federal election funding to state compliance with citizenship verification rules
- Mandate that all ballots be received by Election Day
- Direct federal prosecutors to enforce voting violations and ballot deadlines
- Give states complimentary access to federal citizenship databases for voter verification
- Update security standards for voting systems nationwide
This bill intends to replace short-term administrative rules with permanent federal law that establishes executive orders.
Legislative Process
H.R. 2499 was introduced on March 31 and currently awaits committee review, representing the first step in the congressional legislative process. The bill would need approval from House and Senate committees before potential floor votes in either chamber.
Abe Hamadeh, the bill's primary sponsor, expressed appreciation for Crane's support, stating, "Election integrity is non-negotiable," when acknowledging his colleague's cosponsorship.
State Implementation
If enacted, the legislation would require states to verify the citizenship status of voter registration applicants using federal databases. States that fail to comply with the new requirements could face reductions in federal election funding.
The bill would also establish uniform deadlines for ballot receipt and create federal enforcement mechanisms for election law violations.
Furthermore, the proposed changes would apply to all federal elections, including presidential, Senate, and House races, while allowing states to maintain additional requirements for state and local contests.
