This measure would make WA residents prove they are citizens when they register to vote

A Republican initiative in Washington seeks to require proof of citizenship for voter registration, gaining traction after a court ruling clarified its ballot description. Under the proposed measure, individuals registering must present an enhanced driver’s license, identicard, or alternative ID, with existing voters facing cancellation if they do not provide proof by the November 2027 election. Proponents, including state lawmaker Jim Walsh, assert that the initiative enhances registration integrity and aligns with broader federal efforts to ensure citizenship verification. Critics, such as Roxana Norouzi from OneAmerica, argue that the requirements could deter new voters and disproportionately affect marginalized communities. The initiative requires at least 308,911 signatures by January 2, 2026, to proceed.

If successful, it will first go to lawmakers, who can adopt it or allow it to appear on the November 2026 ballot. The measure reflects a significant shift in Washington's voter registration process, moving from self-certification to mandatory documentation. This change could have lasting implications for voter participation in the state.