In 2013, state legislators continue to push laws that would make it harder for eligible American citizens to vote. At the same time, others are pressing measures to improve elections. Below you will find a regularly-updated, comprehensive roundup of where restrictive laws were introduced, where they are pending, where they are active, and where they have passed thus far. Click here to read a detailed summary of all passed and pending restrictive legislation proposed nationwide in the 2013 state legislative sessions (as of March 29th).
Since the beginning of 2013,
At least 75 restrictive bills were introduced in 30 states. Of those, 64 restrictive bills are still pending in 26 states. Of those, 25 restrictive bills are currently active in 15 states, in that there has been legislative activity beyond introduction and referral to committee (such as hearings or votes).
Two states have already passed 3 restrictive bills this session — Virginia and Arkansas both passed restrictive legislation requiring a photo ID to vote, and Virginia passed legislation making voter registration harder.
But there’s good news, too. More than 200 affirmative reform bills have been introduced across the country, including measures to expand early voting, and modernize the voter registration process through online registration and other steps. A more detailed analysis of reform bills is forthcoming.
Full Article: Election 2013: Voting Laws Roundup | Brennan Center for Justice.