119th (2025–2027)
H.R. 8977
The EFFIE Act, or End Fraudulent Filings that Interfere with Elections Act, amends federal election law to make it a felony for candidates seeking federal office or their employees or agents to knowingly sign false materials or documentation needed to get on the ballot. The law applies to anyone involved in submitting fraudulent ballot access documents, whether the candidate themselves or their staff and representatives. Violations would carry penalties of up to $250,000 in fines, up to five years in prison, or both. The bill would take effect immediately upon passage and does not specify additional funding, as it primarily establishes criminal penalties for existing federal election procedures. This legislation targets fraud in the ballot access process for elections to Congress and the presidency.