Support the California Voting Rights Act of 2026 (SB 1164)

Voting rights are the foundation of our democracy, yet they remain under increasing pressure nationwide. While California has long been a leader in expanding voter access, persistent barriers continue to impact communities of color and other historically marginalized groups. Discriminatory district maps, unequal access to voting resources, and structural barriers continue to undermine equitable participation. While the original California Voting Rights Act of 2001 made important progress by addressing at-large election systems that dilute minority voting power, it did not fully address the broader and evolving challenges voters face today. California Senate Bill (SB) SB 1164 (Cervantes) will strengthen and modernize protections to ensure all Californians have equal access to participate in the democratic process of voting. Building upon the foundation of the California Voting Rights Act of 2001, this bill expands protections against voter suppression, vote dilution, establishes clearer standards for protecting voters, and ensures that state law can effectively defend voting rights as federal protections continue to weaken.  Please support SB 1164, to update existing voting laws to reflect current challenges while increasing accountability for jurisdictions, and ensuring that every Californian regardless of race, background , or community, has a fair and equal opportunity to participate in our democracy.