Voter Empowerment Act of 2026

This bill proposes to expand voter registration and access by requiring states to implement online, automatic, and same-day registration systems, while also allowing individuals under age 18 to submit applications. The legislation would mandate that states provide early voting, no-condition mail-in voting, and secure ballot drop boxes, while prohibiting practices such as voter caging and interference with the voting process. Additionally, it would restore federal voting rights to individuals with past criminal convictions who are not currently serving a felony sentence and permanently reauthorize the Election Assistance Commission to provide grants for these activities.

This legislation affects state governments, which must implement new registration systems, and the Election Assistance Commission, which is permanently reauthorized to provide grants. The bill impacts several categories of voters, including individuals under age 18, persons with disabilities, and U.S. citizens who have completed felony sentences. Additionally, it affects all eligible voters through the establishment of online, automatic, same-day, and early voting procedures.

• Expansion of voter registration requirements. The bill requires states to implement online, automatic, and same-day voter registration systems. It also mandates that states accept registration applications from individuals under the age of 18.
• Protections for voter rolls and registration integrity. The legislation limits the removal of voters from registration rolls and prohibits interference with the registration or voting process. It specifically bans voter caging, which involves using undeliverable mail lists to disqualify registered voters.
• Enhancements to voting access and methods. States must provide early voting options, allow no-excuse mail-in voting, and supply secured drop boxes for absentee ballots. The bill also requires states to ensure individuals with disabilities can register and vote using absentee procedures.
• Restoration of voting rights for formerly incarcerated individuals. The bill establishes that U.S. citizens cannot be denied the right to vote in federal elections due to a criminal conviction unless they are actively serving a felony sentence at the time of the election.
• Reauthorization and funding of the Election Assistance Commission. The Election Assistance Commission (EAC) is granted permanent reauthorization. The bill further directs the EAC to provide grants to states for various activities, such as the implementation of automatic voter registration systems.

The bill permanently reauthorizes the Election Assistance Commission (EAC) and directs the agency to provide grants to states for the implementation of automatic voter registration systems. It also modifies federal election standards regarding voter registration, absentee voting, and the restoration of voting rights for individuals who have completed felony sentences.

The bill aims to expand voter registration and voting access by establishing national standards for online, automatic, and same-day registration while protecting the rights of individuals with disabilities and formerly incarcerated citizens. It also seeks to modernize election infrastructure through the permanent reauthorization of the Election Assistance Commission and the implementation of uniform early voting and mail-in ballot procedures.