What Could the SAVE Act Mean for Your Workforce?
A new piece of federal legislation—the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act—is making waves in the civic space, and business leaders across the country should take note.
The SAVE Act, passed by the U.S. House of Representatives on April 10, 2025, would require documentary proof of U.S. citizenship—such as a passport or birth certificate—for anyone registering to vote in federal elections. The law also proposes criminal penalties for officials who register voters without this documentation, and it instructs states to remove noncitizens from voter rolls.
While intended to strengthen election integrity, the SAVE Act raises important implications for employers—especially those committed to civic engagement and equitable access to the democratic process.
While the legislation moves to the U.S. Senate for consideration, it’s key for you to stay informed and help educate your workforce.
The Bottom Line for Employers
Most companies today recognize that a civically engaged workforce is a stronger, more resilient one. Whether you're leading a startup or managing a large team at a national brand, here’s why the SAVE Act deserves your attention:
1. Documentation Gaps Are Real
Many eligible voters—especially lower-income individuals, rural residents, and women who’ve changed their last names—may not have easy access to the required documents. That could disproportionately impact parts of your workforce or community.
2. Effect on Participation
Adding new documentation barriers could discourage otherwise eligible voters from registering or engaging in civic activities. For companies that support get-out-the-vote (GOTV) efforts or civic time-off policies, this creates confusion and mixed messaging.
3. Legal and HR Considerations
If this law passes the Senate and becomes federal law, HR teams may begin fielding questions from employees unsure about how or whether they can register to vote. Clarity and proactive communication will be key.
The Role of Civic-Minded Businesses
At the IGC Institute, we believe civic leadership is business leadership. That doesn’t mean taking a partisan stand—it means making sure employees have the tools, time, and trust to participate in our democracy confidently.
Here are three steps your business can take:
Stay Informed: Track state and federal policy shifts that affect your workforce.
Communicate Clearly: Consider sharing updates or FAQs with employees about registration deadlines and documentation requirements as laws change.
Continue to Empower: Offer time-off to vote, host civic info sessions, and partner with nonpartisan groups to ensure your team can navigate changes with ease.
Final Thought
The SAVE Act has sparked a national conversation about who gets to participate in our civic duties—and under what conditions. While the legislation moves to the U.S. Senate for consideration, now is the time for business leaders to lean in, stay informed, and help their employees stay empowered.
Because when it comes to democracy, your workplace is part of the equation.