Right to Vote Act
1/1/2023, 8:19 PMSummary of Bill HR 4959
The Right to Vote Act, also known as Bill 117 HR 4959, is a piece of legislation currently being considered by the US Congress. The main goal of this bill is to protect and expand voting rights for all eligible citizens in the United States.One key provision of the Right to Vote Act is the establishment of automatic voter registration. This means that eligible citizens would be automatically registered to vote when they interact with government agencies, such as when they apply for a driver's license or receive social services. This provision aims to increase voter participation and make the registration process more accessible and convenient for all citizens.
Additionally, the bill includes measures to prevent voter suppression and discrimination. It prohibits states from implementing restrictive voting laws, such as voter ID requirements or purging voter rolls, that disproportionately impact minority and marginalized communities. The Right to Vote Act also seeks to strengthen election security by providing funding for states to upgrade their voting systems and implement cybersecurity measures. Overall, the Right to Vote Act is a comprehensive piece of legislation that aims to protect and expand voting rights for all eligible citizens in the United States. It addresses issues such as automatic voter registration, voter suppression, and election security in order to ensure that every citizen has the opportunity to participate in the democratic process.
Congressional Summary of HR 4959
Right to Vote Act
This bill addresses the right to vote in federal elections.
Specifically, the bill declares that every citizen of legal voting age shall have the right to vote in federal elections that is free from any burden on the time, place, or manner of voting.
In addition, the bill prohibits federal, state, and local governments from substantially impairing the ability to vote in federal elections unless the government action furthers an important and particularized governmental interest. Further, the bill specifies that a government may not diminish the ability to vote in federal elections unless the action uses the least restrictive means to achieve such an interest.
A violation of rights created by the bill may be challenged in district court, and a prevailing plaintiff may receive attorney fees. The bill outlines judicial review standards for challenges to voting practices.
