Against the backdrop of federal action that attempts to disenfranchise voters, the New Jersey Assembly Oversight, Reform, and Federal Relations Committee today advanced A4083, better known as the “John R. Lewis Voter Empowerment Act of New Jersey.” The bill, sponsored by Assemblywomen Verlina Reynolds-Jackson and Shavonda Sumter, aims to protect the right to vote and to ensure that all minority groups fully participate in the electoral process.

The bill honors the late civil rights leader, reverend, and U.S. Congressman John Lewis, a prominent figure in the 1965 march for voting rights. Representative Lewis, along with other activists, was brutally attacked by local law enforcement on "Bloody Sunday,” as they tried to cross the Edmund Pettus Bridge. This pivotal event helped raise national awareness of voting discrimination and led to the passage of the Voting Rights Act (VRA) of 1965.

“This bill not only honors the legacy of a great man who fought for justice and equality, it will also enshrine the rights of New Jerseyans, including those in a protected class, to cast a vote and have it counted,” said Assemblywoman Reynolds-Jackson (D-Hunterdon, Mercer). “When those individuals marched into Selma, they did so with the understanding that they were facing immense danger, but they moved forward anyway, determined to show the underrepresented voices in our country the power of their vote and the way it can shape a democracy.”

The bill has three major objectives - protecting the right of voters to have their ballot cast and counted; ensuring that eligible voters are not impaired in registering to vote; and ensuring voters of race, color, and language-minority groups have equitable access to fully participate in the electoral process in registering to vote and voting.

Expanding on key provisions of the VRA, the legislation would reinforce the need for voter protections by requiring that all election-related statues, rules, and regulations favor voter participation. It would also address critical issues such as voter suppression, intimidation and violence, and the right to pursue legal action against discrimination, among other issues, empowering voters who may feel disenfranchised and making sure their ballots are cast and counted without unnecessary obstacles.

“When we vote, we speak with clarity about the future we demand, safer streets, better schools, and a stronger democracy,” said Assemblywoman Sumter (D-Bergen, Passaic). “Now more than ever, our voices must be heard at the ballot box. This bill protects that right. It ensures that no New Jerseyan is silenced because of outdated policies or discriminatory barriers, and that when violations occur, there is a clear path to accountability. Every vote must count, and every voter must be protected.”

Assembly Democrats have a demonstrated track record of working to expand democratic rights and participation of voters. In the past seven years alone, legislative accomplishments in this area include expanding vote-by-mail access, creation of in-person early voting, and restoring voting rights for formerly incarcerated individuals.