Elections.
Vote required
Majority
Fiscal committee
No
Appropriation
No
Current location
Passed
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Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed Assembly
- To Governor
- Became Law
Overview
This bill, the California Voting Rights Act of 2026, aims to strengthen protections against voter suppression and vote dilution by replacing the existing California Voting Rights Act of 2001. It prohibits political subdivisions and state agencies from implementing election policies or practices that negatively impact protected classes (defined as races, colors, or language-minority groups) and establishes a process for courts to oversee election methods. The bill also introduces requirements for public notice, expedited legal proceedings, and preapproval from the Attorney General for certain election changes.
Key provisions
- Prohibits political subdivisions and state agencies from implementing election policies or practices that result in voter suppression or vote dilution.
- Defines ‘voter suppression’ and ‘vote dilution’ based on disparities in voter participation, access, or the ability to participate in the political process for protected classes.
- Requires a 45-day notice period before filing a lawsuit alleging voter suppression or vote dilution, with potential extensions under certain circumstances.
- Establishes expedited pretrial, trial, and appellate proceedings for lawsuits related to voter rights.
- Mandates that courts consider factors when evaluating voter suppression or vote dilution claims, including historical discrimination and the impact on protected classes.
- Requires the Attorney General to preapprove election changes by political subdivisions that have previously been subject to court orders related to voting rights.
Bill text
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