Voting Rights Act bill rescheduled for committee action on Thursday

Although SB 6002 was scheduled for action by the House State Government, Elections & IT Committee last week, it was removed from the schedule and rescheduled for Thursday, February 15. Because this bill moved so fast at the start of session, it has plenty of time to be considered and voted on in the House before any cutoff dates apply.

AWC continues to engage with House legislators in working to improve the clarity of language in this bill that pertains to implementation. We have been focused on working to ensure that the bill’s language mirrors the proponent’s intent, without creating unintended consequences. This includes a continued focus on discussing ways to exempt Washington’s small cities and towns, the size of which is simply too small to gain any benefits by dividing into districts. We have also been working to ensure that the language in the bill does not presume a violation exists in every city. We anticipate that an amended version of SB 6002 will be proposed before the committee meets on Thursday.

If you have concerns about this bill and you haven’t already contacted your legislator, now is the time to do so. We continue to work hard on your behalf, but your individual stories and concerns are the most meaningful. Read our fact sheet on this issue. Please contact Dave Williams or Shannon McClelland if you have any questions or concerns.