National Council of Jewish Women envisions an America where each of us is able to exercise the full spectrum of rights our citizenship affords. An America where each of us can make our voice heard and can participate in elections without obstacles and an America where our democracy works for us, not against us. As Jewish advocates, we have a responsibility to uphold and pursue tzedek, or justice, above all else – and ensuring equal access to the ballot box is the foundation of a just democracy. 

Unfortunately, some policymakers want to misuse disinformation about our elections and conspiracies about noncitizen voting to block access to the ballot for millions of Americans. The Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act would require all voters to present a birth certificate, passport, or one of a select few other documents each time they register or re-register to vote. This bill also eliminates or upends key methods of voter registration such as registration by mail. 

What could this legislation do if passed? Millions of Americans cannot easily access the documents the SAVE Act requires and without them, would not be able to register to vote — and therefore would be barred from voting entirely. This includes scores of younger voters, voters of color, elderly voters, and millions of married women who changed their legal name after getting married, meaning their name does not match their birth certificate.

The SAVE Act is dangerous. It will disenfranchise millions of citizens and will fundamentally disrupt democracy’s sacred promise of ensuring every voice is heard. 

Urge your members of Congress: save our democracy and vote NO on the dangerous SAVE Act!