Rep. Terri Sewell has introduced the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act in the House, aiming to amend the Voting Rights Act of 1965. The bill, officially known as H.R. 14, seeks to restore and revitalize the Voting Rights Act and enhance protections against racial discrimination in voting and representation for voters of color.
Leading her democratic constituents, U.S. Representative Terri Sewell (AL-07) on September 19, 2023, introduced the act, stating, "The John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act would protect the right to vote and safeguard our democracy by restoring and modernizing the protections of the Voting Rights Act."
The bill aims to amend the Voting Rights Act of 1965 by revising the criteria for determining which states and political subdivisions are subject to Section 4 of the Act. Specifically, it focuses on "Violations Triggering Authority of Court to Retain Jurisdiction." The amendment will update Section 3(c) of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 to include "violations of the 14th or 15th Amendment, violations of this Act, or violations of any Federal law that prohibits discrimination in voting on the basis of race, color, or membership in a language minority group."
Michael Waldman, President and CEO of the Brennan Center for Justice at NYU Law, emphasized the importance of swift action by Congress on the bill. "We have needed this bill for a decade," Waldman stated. "This measure would modernize the law and restore its strength so it can once again provide full protection for American citizens at the ballot box."
The John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act aims to address the ongoing challenges faced by voters of color and strengthen their rights. With its introduction in the House, it now awaits further legislative action.
