Restore Voter Registration Support At Citizenship Ceremonies

Defend New Citizens’ Right To Register To Vote U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has issued a new policy barring nongovernmental groups from offering voter registration at administrative naturalization ceremonies. Only state or local election officials may do so, with USCIS staff as a fallback. This change took effect August 29, 2025 and applies nationwide. Reports confirm its impact across the country. Recognize The Value Of Nonpartisan Volunteers For decades, nonpartisan organizations like the League of Women Voters have welcomed new citizens by helping them register to vote. Thousands of new Americans each year have benefited from this support. Volunteers provide forms, answer questions, and overcome language barriers. Removing these trusted helpers strips away encouragement that strengthens democracy. Reverse A Harmful Policy That Limits Participation The new policy limits on-site registration to election officials and blocks civic partners. Many jurisdictions cannot provide officials at every event. This creates gaps, leaving new citizens without immediate access to registration. Without timely support, many leave unregistered, lowering participation and diminishing the civic power of the oath. Demand Oversight And Accountability From USCIS Congress must not let this change stand unexamined. Oversight hearings should bring USCIS officials, election authorities, and civic groups before the public to explain why the restriction was imposed and to document its harm. Transparency will reveal whether the policy serves a legitimate need or is designed to suppress voters. Congressional scrutiny will show that attempts to weaken participation will not go unchallenged. Pass Legislation To Guarantee On-Site Registration Help Congress should act quickly to pass legislation affirming that nonpartisan civic groups may provide voter registration at naturalization ceremonies in partnership with election officials. Codifying this access ensures continuity, prevents arbitrary barriers, and affirms that the right to vote belongs equally to every citizen. Encouraging registration is not partisan advocacy but a democratic welcome. Restore A Welcoming Civic Tradition For New Americans Naturalization ceremonies symbolize both pride and responsibility. Volunteers affirm that citizenship means not only belonging but also participating in democracy. For many, registering to vote on the day of their oath is a moving affirmation of their place in our national community. Congress must act to restore this welcoming, accessible, and nonpartisan path for every new American.