The Unhoused Voter Opportunity Through Elections Act would change federal election rules to reduce barriers for unhoused people registering and voting. It would let voters use a signed statement to meet state residence-documentation requirements, accept certain identification documents issued by the criminal justice system, and allow shelters or unsheltered street locations to be used as voter residence addresses. It would also require election officials to share voting information with shelters and service agencies, consider unhoused people’s access when placing ballot drop boxes, and develop best practices. Grants could support activities such as mobile voting centers and outreach. The bill was introduced and referred to House committees; it has not become law.
If enacted, the bill would require states to allow unhoused applicants to use an unsheltered street location as their residence on voter registration applications. Shelters would become voter registration agencies, and registration forms would include a way to mark a residence on a drawing of an intersection. The bill would also require voting information and election notices to reach shelters and certain service providers.
The bill authorizes funding for grants for fiscal year 2026 and each following year, in amounts to be determined. It does not specify a dollar amount.
No publicly available information.
No publicly available information.