Bill > HB1750

This bill amends the Washington Voting Rights Act to create more comprehensive guidelines for addressing voter suppression and vote dilution claims. The bill expands the legal framework for challenging electoral systems that potentially discriminate against racial, color, or language minority groups. It introduces a new section that prohibits political subdivisions from implementing election policies or practices that create a material disparate burden on protected classes' ability to vote or participate in the political process. The legislation acknowledges Washington's historical discrimination and provides a mechanism for voters, organizations, and tribes to challenge electoral systems that may unfairly impact minority voting rights. Key provisions include requiring political subdivisions to work in good faith to remedy potential violations, allowing for various remedies such as redistricting or modifying election practices, and establishing a process for filing actions and seeking court-ordered changes. The bill also clarifies that proof of intentional discrimination is not required to sustain a cause of action, and it provides guidelines for courts in evaluating and tailoring remedies to address voting rights violations. Additionally, the bill ensures that plaintiffs can seek attorneys' fees and other costs if they successfully demonstrate that a political subdivision has altered its behavior to correct potential voting rights issues.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1750&Year=2025&Initiative=false