Statement from Councilwoman At -Large Crystal Feliciano Regarding the SAVE Act

As a sitting Councilwoman At-Large, I want to ensure that residents of our city are informed about legislation that may impact their civic engagement.  

For those following the news, the federal government has proposed the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act. The bill (1) prohibits states from registering an individual to vote in a federal election unless, at the time of the individual’s voter registration application, the individual provides documentary proof of U.S. citizenship; and (2) requires states to establish an alternative process under which an applicant may submit other evidence to demonstrate U.S. citizenship. (https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/22)

Those who are pro the legislation believe that having such measures in place will strengthen the integrity of elections and ensure compliance with existing federal law, which already prohibits non-citizens from voting in federal elections. Opponents of this legislation have expressed concern that additional documentation requirements could create certain restrictive barriers for eligible voters, such as senior citizens, individuals with name changes due to marriage, adoption, etc., and those without ready access to original documents because they were created or issued in locations far from their current residence. 

It is important that everyone understands that this is federal legislation and has not been enacted into law. As the bill moves forward, I encourage everyone to stay informed, review the full text of the proposal, and make themselves and others aware of how important voting policy is to our democracy, regardless of party affiliation.  

If you are not registered to vote, are of legal age, and meet the eligibility requirements, I encourage you to register today! You can go to the following link to register online: https://voter.svrs.nj.gov/register or go to the Mercer County Clerk’s Office located at 209 South Broad Street in Trenton, NJ, or to the Mercer County Superintendent’s Office located at 640 South Broad Street in Trenton, NJ.  Remember, your voice and your vote matter! 

For further information or to reach me directly, please email cfeliciano@trentonnj.org or call 609-475-2395. As always, I remain committed to ensuring that the residents of Trenton have accurate information and access to resources that support civic participation.