Proposed Texas State Legislation
Introduced February 22, 2017
Summary
The Texas state legislature recently revealed voter ID legislation amendments that aim to satisfy recent court rulings that determined that its current voter ID law had a discriminatory effect against minority groups. The new proposal contains a feature that would permit a voter without any of the currently accepted seven forms of ID to still cast a ballot if they showed an alternate form of identification and “reasonably” claimed that they have been unable to get one of the accepted forms of photo ID. LEARN MORE
Analysis
Even with the proposed additions to the Texas voter photo ID law that are aimed at complying with recent court rulings challenging it, the law itself still creates obstacles for people to vote. According to a fact sheet prepared by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) voter photo ID laws are enforced in a discriminatory manner and often result in minorities being questioned about their ID more often than white voters. The effect of these voter photo ID laws is that it tends to reduce voter turnout from minority communities. LEARN MORE
Engagement Resources
- American Civil Liberties Union – The ACLU is a nonprofit organization that works to preserve and defend individual rights and liberties guaranteed to all citizens. The organization invites donations and offers a platform for citizens to take action on numerous issues and to stand up for what they believe is right.
- Brennan Center for Justice – The Brennan Center for Justice is a nonpartisan law and policy institute that fights to improve American democracy and its system of justice. The organization is a good resource on pressing legal issues and also hosts symposiums and information panels.
- Advancement Project – The Advancement Project is a multi-racial civil rights organization that aspires to create community-based solutions and strategic initiatives to promote equality and justice. They provide tools and resources on their core issues of voter rights, immigrant justice, and educational opportunities.
- Project Vote – Project Vote’s mission is to make sure that every eligible citizen is able to register, vote and cast a ballot that counts. They provide resources on all legal issues related to voting and provides a comprehensive bill tracking tool that analyzes all legislative bills related to voting.
This brief was compiled by Rod Maggay. If you have comments or want to add the name of your organization to this brief, please contact rod@usresistnews.org.