H.R.2807: Help Students Vote Act
Overview
The Help Students Vote Act would require institutions of higher education that participate in programs under Title IV of the Higher Education Act to distribute voter registration forms to students enrolled at the institution. Institutions would have to make a “good faith effort” to distribute forms to every student and to make the forms widely available. Timelines for distribution would be twice per year at least 30 days in advance of that state’s registration deadline for that year’s primary election and general election. Electronic transmission of this information is permissible.
Grants (no specific amount appropriated) would be made available to institutions that greatly exceed these minimum requirements by organizing mobilization campaigns or additional promotions on campus.
The bill creates a right to bring a federal civil action by state law enforcement or the chief elections official of the state. The courts may grant declaratory relief and force the institution to comply, and civil fines may also be levied against the institution.
View Full OverviewTalking Points
- The National Assembly supports this bill because it would make it easier for students to register to voter and has the potential to increase civil participation which helps everyone have a say in how our elected officials develop public policy.