Friend,
Today marks the fourth anniversary of the death of legislative giant and civil rights hero Congressman John Lewis. His legacy is one of fighting for justice in the face of adversity and we walk in his footsteps when we imagine a more just society.
In the years before his death, Rep. Lewis and his allies were working furiously to update our voting rights legislation to meet the needs of our current moment. With the far-right working to chip away at the right to vote via the courts and state legislation, we need the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act and the Freedom to Vote Act now more than ever!
Curious about what reforms are included in these bills? Here are some highlights.
Key provisions of the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act:
- Restore and modernize the Voting Rights Act (VRA): This would put back in place a new geographic formula for the VRA’s preclearance requirement which will prevent discriminatory voting practices before they can take effect.
- Expand protection against discriminatory voting practices: This will broaden the VRA’s protections to cover changes to voting practices that have a discriminatory impact, ensuring that all voters are treated fairly.
- Increase transparency for voting practice changes: The legislation will require greater public notice and disclosure of changes to voting practices, making it harder for discriminatory changes to go unnoticed.
- Increase accountability for violations: This legislation will provide federal authorities with stronger tools to combat voting discrimination and ensure that those who violate the law are held accountable.
Key provisions of the Freedom to Vote Act:
- Automatic voter registration and online voter registration: Enacts an automatic voter registration system for each state through the state’s motor vehicle agency and ensures voters in all states have access to online voter registration.
- Same day voter registration: Ensures every state offers same day registration at a limited number of locations for the 2024 elections and at all polling locations by 2026.
- Strengthens voter list maintenance standards: Requires that the removal of voters from the rolls is done on the basis of reliable and objective evidence and prohibits the use of returned mail sent by third parties to remove voters.
- Expands access to the ballot through early voting and mail voting in all states.
- Cracks down on deceptive and intimidating practices: Prohibit the dissemination of false and misleading information designed to deter eligible voters from casting a ballot.
- Counters big money in politics: Shores up campaign transparency and ensures the independence of super PAC’s.
- And much more...
We must commit to addressing attacks on the right to vote across the nation. While we are currently struggling against strict voter ID requirements, purging voter rolls, limiting early voting hours, and partisan gerrymandering, John Lewis’ legacy inspires us to think bigger about what is possible.
Thank you for your commitment to making change in remembrance of the great Rep. John Lewis.
Rio Tazewell
People For the American Way
P.S. Activists across the country have organized rallies today to commemorate this anniversary and advocate for justice and equality. Find a rally and RSVP!
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