1. United States
2. Mich.
3. Letter

House Joint Resolution B is an alarming proposal that would severely restrict voting rights and disenfranchise millions of eligible voters in Michigan. The resolution would amend the state constitution to require verification of U.S. citizenship for voter registration and impose stricter voter ID requirements. These measures are unnecessary and would create significant barriers to voting, particularly for marginalized communities. Requiring proof of citizenship for voter registration is a solution in search of a problem. Numerous studies have shown that non-citizen voting is exceedingly rare and not a credible threat to election integrity. This requirement would disproportionately impact naturalized citizens, who may face challenges obtaining the necessary documentation. Moreover, the proposed voter ID restrictions fail to account for the reality that many individuals, especially women who have changed their surnames due to marriage, may not have identification that exactly matches their voter registration information. This could lead to countless qualified voters being turned away from the polls through no fault of their own. Voting is a fundamental right in a democracy, and no eligible citizen should face unnecessary obstacles in exercising that right. Rather than erecting barriers, we should be working to increase access to the ballot box and ensure every voice can be heard. I urge you to reject House Joint Resolution B and uphold the ideals of an inclusive, participatory democracy for all Michiganders.