Alabama lawmakers pass bills on absentee ballots and diversity programs

SOURCE npr.org
Alabama lawmakers passed bills outlawing paid assistance with absentee ballot applications and restricting diversity, equity, and inclusion programs at universities and state agencies. The bills are seen as attempts to combat voter fraud and prevent divisive concepts in educational programs.

Key Points

  • Outlawing pre-filled absentee ballot applications and paid assistance
  • Restricting diversity, equity, and inclusion programs at educational institutions and state agencies
  • Prohibiting transgender individuals from using multiple occupancy restrooms based on gender identity

Pros

  • Attempting to combat voter fraud through 'ballot harvesting'
  • Guarding against programs that deepen divisions

Cons

  • Criticism of voter suppression and limiting access to absentee voting
  • Efforts viewed as rolling back affirmative action programs and diversity initiatives