Texas Bill Requires Citizenship Proof for Voter Registration

Texas Senate Bill 16, proposed by Senator Bryan Hughes, would require voters to provide proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate or passport, to register to vote. This measure aims to enhance voter ID laws by ensuring only U.S. citizens can vote, addressing concerns about noncitizen voting, which is currently rare. Opponents argue the bill could create barriers for eligible voters, especially low-income individuals, due to the cost and accessibility of obtaining necessary documents. Supporters claim many Texans already provide proof of citizenship when obtaining state IDs. The bill, backed by all Senate Republicans, appears likely to pass despite criticisms that it may disenfranchise voters. The bill allows those without proof to vote only in federal elections, with a six-day grace period post-election to submit documentation for their votes to be counted.