Introduction
At a time that voting rights are under attack nationwide, and many states are racing to enact restrictions that disproportionately impact Black Americans, the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Act of New York passed the New York State legislature and was signed into law in 2022. This law creates the strongest voting rights law of any state in the nation, by prohibiting voter dilution, suppression and intimidation and expanding language assistance. The law also establishes state-level “pre-clearance,” requiring certain jurisdictions with a history of civil rights violations to obtain review before making changes to local election rules. New York’s VRA will protect the rights of Black voters to participate in our elections and make their voices heard. New York joined OR, VA and WA in passing a state-level voting rights act, and CA and CT have subsequently enacted similar laws.
State Action
New York
NBCSL Member Sponsor(s):- Sen. Zellnor Myrie (NY)
Summary: State of New York - SB S1046E : John R. Lewis Voting Rights Act of New York
View/Download Bill open_in_new