hold on there's just too much going on in Congress lmao...
Constitutional amendment to limit voting in federal elections to citizens only.
Sponsored by Rep. Laurel Lee (R-FL) and five cosponsors.
Introduced in House, referred to Judiciary Committee.
This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment that would restrict voting in federal elections (President, Vice President, and Congress) to U.S. citizens. It also allows states to enforce it and gives Congress power to enforce it in D.C. The sponsor, Rep. Laurel Lee, is a Republican from Florida. The bill is in the early stages—introduced and sent to the House Judiciary Committee. It would need two-thirds of both chambers and three-fourths of states to become part of the Constitution.
Introduced Mar 19, 2026
This bill is under review by a committee. The committee holds hearings, gathers testimony from experts and stakeholders, and may propose amendments. If the committee votes to advance it, the bill moves to the full chamber for debate and a vote.
Currently, the Constitution doesn't explicitly say who can vote in federal elections, though federal law already prohibits non-citizens from voting. This amendment would make that prohibition permanent and constitutional, preventing future Congresses from changing it without another amendment. States currently set most voting rules, so they might have to adjust their systems. The amendment also gives Congress direct power to enforce it in Washington, D.C., which could lead to new federal laws.
Supporters Say
Supporters argue that only citizens should decide who represents the nation, and this amendment locks in that principle permanently.
Critics Say
Critics argue that current law already bans non-citizen voting, making this unnecessary, and that it could lead to stricter voter ID laws targeting minorities.
Supporters, like the sponsors, say the amendment protects the integrity of elections and ensures that only those with a stake in the country—citizens—have a say. Critics counter that it's a solution in search of a problem, as non-citizen voting is already illegal and rare. Some worry it could be used to justify additional voting restrictions that might disproportionately affect naturalized citizens or minority groups.