# What the Securing our Elections Act of 2023 Actually Does

This bill would require all voters to show a photo ID when voting in federal elections—like elections for President, Congress, and Senate. Right now, voting rules vary widely from state to state. Some states already require photo ID, while others don't require any ID at all. This bill would create one consistent rule across the entire country: no photo ID, no ballot for federal elections.

The bill applies to everyone voting in person. If you show up to vote without a valid photo ID, you can still cast a provisional ballot, but it won't count unless you come back within three days with a photo ID or sign an affidavit saying you have a religious objection to being photographed. For people voting by mail or absentee, you'd need to either include a copy of your photo ID with your ballot or provide the last four digits of your Social Security number along with a signed statement saying you tried but couldn't get a photo ID. The only exception is for military members stationed overseas, who wouldn't need to provide ID.

The bill recognizes that getting a photo ID can be difficult or expensive for some people. States would be required to provide free photo IDs to anyone who can't afford one or who can't obtain one after making a reasonable effort. States would also need to make sure there are free digital imaging devices (like scanners and copiers) available at public buildings so people can make copies of their IDs without paying. Additionally, when someone registers to vote, they'd be notified about the photo ID requirement. The law would take effect for the 2024 elections and beyond.

Securing our Elections Act of 2023

Rep. Fitzpatrick, Brian K. [R-PA-1]

Securing our Elections Act of 2023 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 photo identification. Next, the bill outlines the availability of provisional ballots and the requirements for counting those ballots. In particular, 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 the ballot with (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. The bill also requires an election official to provide an individual with a valid photo identification without charge if that individual presents an affidavit attesting to an inability to afford or otherwise obtain a valid photo identification.