Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) today continued his efforts to uphold election integrity by cosponsoring H.R. 6299, the Protecting Our Democracy by Preventing Foreign Citizens from Voting Act. The bill prohibits federal funding to states and localities that allow non-citizens to vote in any federal, state, or local election.
Congressman Womack said, "Voting in U.S. elections is a hallmark privilege of being a citizen. A government "by the people' doesn't happen if foreign nationals can influence outcomes. No taxpayer dollars should go to localities actively working to disenfranchise and silence the voices of Americans. We must protect and strengthen voter confidence--not diminish it."
The Protecting Our Democracy by Preventing Foreign Citizens from Voting Act would:
Prohibit federal funds from going to any state or local government that allows foreign citizens to vote in any federal, state, or local election;
Require, upon application, approval, and receipt of any federal funds, the state or local government to certify they do not allow foreign citizens to vote; and
Make the measure effective on and after the date of enactment.
The legislation was introduced following unconstitutional moves by New York City, San Francisco, Vermont, and other liberal jurisdictions to allow non-citizens the ability to vote in local elections. Foreign nationals should not have the ability to cast U.S. ballots, which influence decisions impacting American families, communities, rights, and representation in government.