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Bill

HR 7874

Mail Ballot Integrity Act

119th Congress Introduced by Sheri Biggs and 8 co-sponsors

HR 7874 prohibits states from automatically mailing federal election ballots, requiring voters to request absentee ballots instead, potentially reducing mail voting participation.

Introduced in House
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HR 7874

Legislative bill overview

HR 7874 would prevent states from automatically mailing ballots to voters for federal elections without an explicit request. States could still offer mail-in voting, but would need voters to apply for absentee ballots rather than sending them unsolicited. The bill applies only to federal elections (presidential, congressional) and does not restrict state or local elections.

Why is this important

Mail-in voting access directly affects voter participation rates and election logistics. This bill would fundamentally alter how approximately half of U.S. states currently conduct federal elections, potentially requiring significant administrative changes and affecting voter convenience. The debate reflects broader disagreements about election accessibility versus election security protocols.

Potential points of contention

  • Election accessibility vs. participation: Unsolicited ballots increase mail-in voting participation; requiring applications may reduce turnout, particularly among elderly, disabled, and mobile populations who benefit from convenience voting.
  • State sovereignty: The bill restricts state-level election administration practices that many states have implemented and defend as legitimate policy choices, raising federalism concerns.
  • Election security framing: Supporters cite security concerns about unsolicited mail ballots; opponents argue these systems have low fraud rates and that application requirements don't meaningfully enhance security while reducing access.
  • Partisan implications: Unsolicited ballot policies currently favor Democratic-leaning demographics (older, less mobile voters), making this a politically charged reform rather than a neutral procedural change.

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

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