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John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act of 2025
3/7/2025, 4:23 AM
Summary of Bill HR 14
The proposed changes in Bill 119 hr 14 seek to modernize the criteria used in determining which jurisdictions are subject to section 4, taking into account more recent instances of voter suppression and discrimination. By updating these criteria, the bill aims to ensure that all eligible voters have equal access to the ballot box and are not unfairly disenfranchised.
In addition to revising the criteria for determining which jurisdictions are subject to section 4, the bill also includes provisions for enhancing transparency and accountability in the voting process. This includes measures to increase access to voter registration and polling locations, as well as efforts to combat voter intimidation and suppression tactics. Overall, the Voting Rights Advancement Act of 2019 seeks to strengthen and protect the voting rights of all Americans, regardless of race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status. By updating and modernizing the Voting Rights Act of 1965, this bill aims to ensure that every eligible voter has the opportunity to participate in our democracy and have their voice heard.
Congressional Summary of HR 14
John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act of 2025
This bill establishes new criteria for determining which states and political subdivisions must obtain preclearance before changes to voting practices may take effect. Preclearance is the process of receiving preapproval from the Department of Justice (DOJ) or the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia before making legal changes that would affect voting rights.
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.
A political subdivision as a separate unit shall also be subject to preclearance for a 10-year period if three or more voting rights violations occurred there during the previous 25 years.
States and political subdivisions that meet certain thresholds regarding minority groups must preclear covered practices before implementation, such as redistricting.
States and political subdivisions must notify the public of changes to voting practices.
The bill authorizes DOJ to require states or political subdivisions to provide certain documents or answers to questions for enforcing voting rights.
The bill outlines factors courts must consider when hearing challenges to voting practices, such as the extent of any history of official voting discrimination in the state or political subdivision.
