Native American Voting Rights Act to be heard in Senate

OLYMPIA –The Senate State Government Committee will hear the Native American Voting Rights Act next week. The legislation would allow the residential address portion of a voter registration form to be filled out with a nontraditional address.

When: 8 a.m. Wednesday (Jan. 23) in Senate Hearing Room 2

Brief Summary:

•  Senate Bill 5079 establishes the Native American Voting Rights Act of Washington.

Quote from Sen. John McCoy, D- Tulalip:

“As the only enrolled tribal member elected to the Washington State Senate, I realize there is still much work to be done to ensure that the indigenous community can fully participate in the democratic process.

“Voter participation is not a partisan issue; it is the foundation of our democratic system and must be protected by all sides. Democrats and Republicans should be able to work together to ensure that our electoral system works in the interest of all Americans.

“Our democracy works best when we all have the opportunity to participate. When entire communities are denied access to the ballot box; lawmakers need to take a look at systemic issues that need to be addressed.”