Congresswoman Laurel M. Lee | Laurel M. Lee Official Website
Congresswoman Laurel M. Lee | Laurel M. Lee Official Website
Today, Committee on House Administration Chairman Bryan Steil and Subcommittee on Elections Chair Laurel Lee have introduced the Uniform State ACE Act, a model state election integrity legislation. The act works in conjunction with the American Confidence in Elections Act, H.R. 4563, and aims to increase voters' confidence and promote election integrity.
In a statement, Elections Subcommittee Chair Lee emphasized the importance of the Uniform State ACE Act in ensuring election integrity at the state level. She said, "Americans need to feel confident that their elections are secure, which is why we have compiled crucial election integrity measures into model state legislation. The Uniform State ACE Act serves as a comprehensive toolkit to ensure election integrity is being carried out at the state level."
Chairman Steil echoed this sentiment and expressed his focus on increasing voters' confidence and participation in elections. He stated, "By providing a toolkit of election integrity bills to states, we are going one step further in securing our elections and increasing Americans' confidence. I am committed to maintaining our federalist approach to elections while encouraging safe and secure election administration."
The Uniform State ACE Act is part of House Republicans' broader effort to enhance Americans' confidence in elections. It includes thirteen election integrity measures that mirror those proposed for elections in Washington, D.C., in the federal ACE Act. The act acknowledges the diversity of state-specific challenges and opportunities while aligning with national objectives for election integrity.
Importantly, the Uniform State ACE Act respects state autonomy and prevents a one-size-fits-all takeover of elections. It empowers states rather than mandating them, with the federal role being minimal yet supportive. The act also provides a practical framework for legislators, regardless of their state's political leaning, drawing upon successful election integrity measures implemented in various states.
The introduction of the Uniform State ACE Act reinforces the primary authority of states, as granted by Article 1, Section 4 of the Constitution, to set election law and administer federal elections. Congress plays a smaller, secondary role in this division of power.
Overall, the Uniform State ACE Act serves as a crucial tool for states to enhance election integrity and increase voters' confidence. It offers a comprehensive toolkit that can be tailored to address state-specific challenges while aligning with national objectives. With the introduction of this model state legislation, Lee and Steil continue their efforts to ensure the security and integrity of the electoral process.