Trump-Reagan Election Enforcement Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Boebert, Lauren [R-CO-4]
- Committees
- Transportation and Infrastructure Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Jul 23, 2026
Bottom line
H.R. 9897 links federal highway funding to state-level voter registration requirements, mandating strict proof of citizenship for federal elections and imposing financial penalties for non-compliance.
What it actually does
This bill, titled the 'Trump-Reagan Election Enforcement Act,' amends federal highway law to mandate that states require documentary proof of U.S. citizenship for federal voter registration. States that fail to enact these specific requirements, including an alternative process, ongoing non-citizen identification programs, and penalties for election officials, will face a 10% reduction in their federal surface transportation funding, increasing by an additional 5% each subsequent fiscal year.
Proponents argue
Proponents argue that this bill is essential for securing the integrity of federal elections by preventing non-citizens from voting, thereby upholding the principle of citizen-only suffrage. They contend that requiring documentary proof of citizenship is a common-sense measure to ensure that only eligible voters participate, and that linking it to federal funding incentivizes states to adopt these critical safeguards against voter fraud.
Opponents contend
Opponents would likely argue that this bill constitutes federal overreach into state election administration, which is traditionally a state responsibility. They would contend that such strict proof-of-citizenship requirements could disenfranchise eligible citizens, particularly those in marginalized communities who may lack easy access to the specified documents. Critics might also argue that withholding transportation funds is an unrelated and punitive measure that harms states' infrastructure development and disproportionately impacts citizens who rely on those services.
The bill is short and relatively straightforward, making it accessible for a quick review by an informed reader.
Section 2(a), adding new Section 180(a) to Chapter 1 of title 23, United States Code.
Withholding of Surface Transportation Funding for Non-Compliance
This provision mandates that the Secretary of Transportation will withhold 10% of a state's federal surface transportation funding (apportioned under section 104(b) of title 23) if the state does not have specific laws in effect regarding proof of U.S. citizenship for voter registration. The withholding increases by an additional 5% for each subsequent fiscal year the state remains non-compliant, starting after fiscal year 2026.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that this mechanism provides a strong incentive for states to adopt critical election integrity measures, ensuring that only eligible citizens vote in federal elections. They contend that the financial leverage is necessary to address a perceived national security and democratic integrity issue.
Critics contend
Opponents would argue that this is an coercive federal mandate that inappropriately links unrelated policy areas. They might contend that withholding transportation funds punishes state residents by hindering infrastructure development, rather than solely impacting state policymakers.
Tradeoffs
The bill trades state autonomy in election administration for federal financial incentives aimed at standardizing voter registration requirements. It also creates a tension between federal election integrity goals and state transportation funding needs.
Section 2(a), adding new Section 180(b)(1) to Chapter 1 of title 23, United States Code.
Mandatory Documentary Proof of U.S. Citizenship for Voter Registration
This provision requires states to enact laws mandating that individuals applying to register to vote in federal elections present specific documentary proof of U.S. citizenship. Acceptable documents include REAL ID-compliant identification indicating citizenship, a valid U.S. passport, military ID with service record showing U.S. birth, or other government-issued photo ID combined with a certified birth certificate, hospital record, adoption decree, Consular Report of Birth Abroad, Naturalization Certificate, or an American Indian Card (KIC classification).
Section 2(a), adding new Section 180(b)(3) and (5) to Chapter 1 of title 23, United States Code.
State Programs for Identifying and Removing Non-Citizens from Voter Rolls
States are required to take affirmative, ongoing steps to ensure only U.S. citizens are registered to vote. This includes establishing a program specifically designed to identify individuals who are not U.S. citizens and subsequently removing non-citizens from official lists of eligible voters.
Section 2(a), adding new Section 180(b)(6) and (7) to Chapter 1 of title 23, United States Code.
Accountability for Election Officials Regarding Non-Citizen Registration
This provision requires states to establish both a private right of action and criminal penalties against any election official who registers an applicant to vote in a federal election without the applicant presenting the required documentary proof of U.S. citizenship.