OPENING THE RECORD
OPENING THE RECORD
S.J.RES. 186 · 119TH CONGRESS
This proposes a constitutional amendment. A congressional proposal requires two-thirds of both chambers and ratification by three-fourths of the states. It does not require the president’s signature. Read the amendment process.
CONGRESSIONAL RESEARCH SERVICE
This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment related to the fundamental right to vote.
Specifically, it grants every U.S. citizen of legal voting age the fundamental right to vote in any public election held in the jurisdiction in which the citizen resides.
Next, it specifies that the fundamental right to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States, a state, or a political subdivision of a state, unless the denial or abridgment is in furtherance of a compelling governmental interest by the least restrictive means.
Finally, it repeals a specific portion of the Fourteenth Amendment to the Constitution, which allows for the denial of the right to vote based on crime. (Currently, some states disallow individuals from voting, either temporarily or indefinitely, after incarceration for a felony.)
Written by the Congressional Research Service for this version of the bill. Later versions may differ. Read at Congress.gov.