The Safe and Fair Elections Act of 2026 is a proposal that would change rules for federal elections. It would require most voters to show photo identification, set a deadline for receiving mail and absentee ballots, and allow early votes to be counted before Election Day. It would also require open primaries and set new rules for drawing congressional districts. The bill was introduced in the Senate and referred to the Committee on Rules and Administration.
If enacted, most people voting in person would need a listed photo ID. A voter without one could cast a provisional ballot and would generally have three days to provide an ID or a state affidavit for a religious objection to being photographed. Most voters casting ballots by mail would need to send an ID copy or provide the last four digits of their Social Security number and an affidavit. Exceptions include certain military and overseas voters and some voters covered by an accessibility law. Starting in 2027, most mailed ballots would need to arrive by poll closing time on Election Day, with exceptions for certain voters and declared emergencies or disasters. The bill would also require open primaries and change how congressional districts are drawn.
The bill would provide $200 million for fiscal year 2027 grants to states and local governments to speed up ballot counting. The text does not give details about other costs.
No publicly available information.
No publicly available information.