OPPOSING VOTER-SUPPRESSION LAWS

WHEREAS, the right to vote is a fundamental right of American citizens and the foundation of a vibrant democracy; and

WHEREAS, states across the country have enacted new laws that restrict access to voting, including laws requiring certain forms of ID to vote, laws restricting voter registration and laws cutting early voting; and

WHEREAS, these laws have an inordinate impact on young voters, elderly voters, minority voters and students; and

WHEREAS, these laws can impose additional costs on states at a time when state funds are needed to support education, social services and other important priorities:

RESOLVED, that the American Federation of Teachers will oppose laws restricting access to voting and to voter registration and the restriction of voting rights.