04.29.2016

NEW YORK – Rights & Democracy and Center for Popular Democracy applauded the passage of automatic voter registration in Vermont, the fourth state in the country to pass a version of the policy. The new law – passed nearly unanimously in the House and Senate – will automatically register eligible Vermont voters when they apply for or renew their driver’s license or other state-issued I.D., unless they decline to be registered. The law modernizes Vermont’s current voter registration system making it more accessible, portable and secure. 

Sheila Reed, Board Member of Rights & Democracy from Ryegate, released the following statement:

“At a time when several other states are busy setting up roadblocks to voter registration and participation, we are proud to be part of the effort to take an important step forward for democracy.”

Emma Greenman, Director of Voting Rights and Democracy at Center for Popular Democracy, also released a statement:

“Vermont’s bi-partisan passage for automatic voter registration strengthens the state’s democratic infrastructure by modernizing the voting process and making voter registration more accessible and inclusive. Automatic voter registration expands and protects the fundamental right to vote and we are proud of the work our state partner Rights & Democracy did to make this important policy a reality. This legislation is the result of a growing grassroots effort that is expanding the promise of our democracy to all, and I hope Vermont will help pave the way for other states to take the same important step.”

###

www.radvt.org

Rights & Democracy’s mission is to bring people together to take action to build healthy communities and make the values of our communities guide the policies of our government. We are building a popular movement to advance rights and build a real democracy.  We work in partnership with community groups, progressive unions, faith communities, organizations fighting for human and civil rights, and environmental and climate action groups.

www.populardemocracy.org

The Center for Popular Democracy promotes equity, opportunity, and a dynamic democracy in partnership with innovative base-building organizations, organizing networks and alliances, and progressive unions across the country. CPD builds the strength and capacity of democratic organizations to envision and advance a pro-worker, pro-immigrant, racial justice agenda.

Contact:

Asya Pikovsky, apikovsky@populardemocracy.org, 207-522-2442

Anita Jain, ajain@populardemocracy.org, 347-636-9761