The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced on July 10, 2026, that states must adopt specific election security measures to qualify for certain federal homeland security grants. This new guidance requires states to certify the implementation of what DHS describes as 'common-sense election security measures.'
To be eligible for funding from the Homeland Security Grant Program, states must meet five requirements: use the federal Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) database to verify voter eligibility, verify the citizenship of poll workers, conduct a manual audit of at least 5% of all ballots cast in federal elections, ensure the number of ballots matches the number of voters, and eliminate reliance on systems using barcoded ballots. Failure to comply will result in a 20% reduction in grant funding.
Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin stated that these measures aim to ensure election integrity, emphasizing that 'election security is national security.' The grants are intended to assist states and local governments in preparing for various risks, including terrorism and cybersecurity threats. The new policy ties broader DHS funding to the adoption of election practices favored by the Trump administration.
This announcement coincides with ongoing efforts to advance the SAVE America Act, which aims to require documentary proof of U.S. citizenship for voter registration. While the House has passed versions of this legislation, it has faced challenges in the Senate. President Donald Trump has prioritized the passage of this act, indicating he would not sign further legislation until it reaches his desk.