Protecting Democratic Processes - The John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act
The John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act would change the criteria for which states and political subdivisions must obtain preclearance before changing voting practices. This proposition would require states be subject to preclearance of voting practices changes for a 10-year period if they have have violated voting rights within the past 25 years. Preclearance is the process of receiving approval from the Department of Justice (DOJ) or the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia before being able to make legal changes that would affect voting rights. While the bill was initially introduced in 2021, it was introduced in Fall 2023 and has been referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary. Specific changes to criteria are listed below:
"A state and all of its political subdivisions shall be subject to preclearance of voting practice changes for a 10-year period if, during the previous 25 years:
15 or more voting rights violations occurred in the state;
10 or more violations occurred, at least 1 of which was committed by the state itself; or
3 or more violations occurred and the state administers the elections.”
Why It Matters
SCG believes that a healthy democracy is one where all people have the opportunity to actively participate in the decision-making process. The John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act exemplifies SCG’s commitment to a multiracial democracy, ensuring that states and political subdivisions are held accountable to proper civic engagement and fair access to voting. Philanthropy has a crucial role in uplifting nonprofits and community partners who are on the ground promoting civil participation. When we invest in democracy, we invest in the power of people to create a thriving society. This legislative initative serves to protect historically excluded voters and strengthen our elections. We know that black, indigineous, and communities of color have often faced barriers to voting, and every bill passed to minimize those disparities is a compelling effort in uplifting representation and agency for all people.
Legislative Year
2023
Position
Support
Status
Amended