The Freedom to Vote Act: Expanding Voting Access and Protecting Elections

Standardizing Voting Laws and Expanding Access

The Freedom to Vote Act (S2747) is a comprehensive legislation that aims to standardize voting election laws across the United States and significantly expand voting access. Among its provisions, the bill would:

• Establish automatic voter registration at state agencies like DMVs and social welfare offices.
• Allow same-day voter registration.
• Create a national mail-in voting list.
• Provide at least 10 days of early voting.

Reversing Restrictive Measures

The Freedom to Vote Act specifically addresses the effects of restrictive voting laws enacted in recent years. These laws have made it more difficult for certain groups, such as people of color, low-income voters, and young adults, to register and cast their ballots.

The bill would reverse these measures by:

• Prohibiting voter ID laws that require photo identification at the polls.
• Restoring voting rights to formerly incarcerated individuals.
• Expanding early voting hours and locations.

Protecting Elections from Interference

Preventing Voter Suppression

The Freedom to Vote Act aims to prevent voter suppression by:

• Prohibiting the removal of voters from registration rolls without notice and an opportunity for them to contest.
• Banning the use of misleading or deceptive tactics to discourage people from voting.

Combating Partisan Sabotage

The bill also addresses partisan sabotage of elections by:

• Requiring states to use independent redistricting commissions to draw congressional districts.
• Banning the use of partisan poll watchers who can harass or intimidate voters.

Gerrymandering and Dark Money

The Freedom to Vote Act seeks to combat gerrymandering, the practice of drawing electoral districts to favor one political party over another, by:

• Requiring states to use nonpartisan criteria to draw district lines.
• Creating a public database of political spending.

Conclusion

The Freedom to Vote Act is a landmark legislation that aims to expand voting access, protect elections from interference, and ensure that every eligible American can make their voice heard at the ballot box. By passing this bill, we can strengthen our democracy and make it more responsive to the needs of the people.