Democratic Representative Delia Ramirez proposes a bill, H.R. 10803, that aims to dismantle the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and redirect its resources. This legislation includes measures for universal mail-in voting, civic education focused on equity, and changes to immigration laws regarding noncitizens who vote illegally.
1. Abolishment of DHS:
The proposed bill seeks to abolish DHS and create a new department responsible for community safety. It aims to redirect resources towards various civic initiatives.
2. Funding for Mail-In Voting:
The legislation includes provisions for federal grants that support universal mail-in voting, early voting without excuses, and language-accessible voting processes.
3. Removal of Deportation Grounds:
The bill would eliminate the deportation consequences for noncitizens who vote unlawfully, although it maintains the criminal ban on noncitizen voting.
4. Civic Education Programs:
The new department would provide funding for civic curricula teaching about constitutional rights, systemic equity, and participatory democracy, along with support for community engagement initiatives.
5. Broader Funding Initiatives:
The legislation also proposes a reallocation of DHS funding towards universal healthcare, housing, and education, beyond just voting-related grants.
H.R. 10803 is a comprehensive bill focused on dismantling DHS and promoting civic engagement through mail-in voting and education, while revising immigration practices related to voting. The plan has significant implications for federal resource allocation and immigration policy.