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LC 1848

Constitutional amendment regarding qualified elector to require that only a citizen can vote

2025 Regular Session

Summary of LC 1848: Constitutional Amendment on Citizen Voting OverviewBill Number: LC 1848 Title: Constitutional amendment regarding qualified elector to require that only a citi

(LC) Draft Ready for Delivery
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Bill Summary · LC 1848

Summary of LC 1848: Constitutional Amendment on Citizen Voting

Overview

Bill Number: LC 1848
Title: Constitutional amendment regarding qualified elector to require that only a citizen can vote
Status: (LC) Draft Ready for Delivery
Introduced: November 22, 2024

Purpose and Intent

The purpose of this proposed constitutional amendment is to require that only citizens of the United States can be qualified electors and vote in elections. The intent is to restrict voting rights to citizens in order to ensure the integrity of the electoral process and prevent non-citizens from participating.

Key Provisions

  • Amends the state constitution to specify that "only a citizen of the United States shall be a qualified elector and entitled to vote in any state or local election"
  • Removes language allowing non-citizens who have declared their intent to become citizens to be qualified electors
  • Requires proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate or naturalization documents, in order to register to vote
  • Imposes penalties for non-citizens who attempt to register or vote, including fines and potential criminal charges

Affected Parties and Impacts

  • This amendment would primarily impact non-citizen residents, including legal permanent residents (green card holders), temporary visa holders, and undocumented immigrants, by stripping them of the right to vote.
  • It could also create barriers and confusion for some citizens, who may struggle to provide the required proof of citizenship documents to register.
  • Civil rights groups have raised concerns that the amendment could disproportionately disenfranchise certain minority communities and make it harder for eligible citizens to exercise their right to vote.

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

This is currently a draft legislative concept (LC) that has been prepared for introduction. If introduced and passed by the state legislature, the proposed constitutional amendment would then need to be approved by voters through a statewide ballot measure. The timeline for potential passage and implementation would depend on the legislative process, but constitutional amendments typically have a longer path to enactment compared to regular legislation.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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