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HCR 19

Urge congressional delegation to uphold federalism re: elections

136th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Tex Fischer

Ohio urges its congressional delegation to defend state authority over election administration against expanded federal regulatory control.

Introduced and Referred to Committee
#elections
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HCR 19

Legislative bill overview

HCR 19 is a concurrent resolution urging Ohio's federal congressional delegation to uphold federalism principles in election matters. The resolution emphasizes that election regulation should remain primarily under state authority rather than expanded federal control, consistent with the Constitution's delegation of election administration to states.

Why is this important

Elections are administered at the state and local level in the U.S., but federal laws can impose requirements on states (like voter registration deadlines, voting access standards, and security measures). This resolution reflects ongoing debate about the appropriate balance between state autonomy and federal oversight in election administration—a tension that has intensified in recent years over voting rights, election security, and voter access policies.

Potential points of contention

  • Interpretation of federalism: Supporters argue states should control elections; opponents contend that federal standards prevent discriminatory voting practices and protect voting rights across state lines
  • Which specific federal mandates are problematic: The resolution doesn't name particular federal election laws or proposals it opposes, leaving ambiguity about its actual targets (voting rights protections, security requirements, or proposed new federal measures)
  • Voting rights vs. state control trade-off: Federal intervention historically addressed voter suppression; limiting federal authority could enable some states to restrict voting access while protecting state flexibility in others

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

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