More Voting Modifications Proposed in SC

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO) — Republican State Representative Alan Clemmons of Myrtle Beach is proposing restrictions on third party voter registration organizations like churches and other civic organizations; however, those who oppose the measure say it amounts to voter suppression tactics. House Bill 4549, known as the Third Party Bill, would regulate groups and organizations that traditionally register people to vote. It would also impose fines on such groups should they be found in violation of the law. That law, if passed, would require volunteers, etc., who retrieve personal information from those seeking to become registered ensure that information is submitted to the State Elections Commission in a timely manner. Clemmons says the bill holds the groups accountable and prevents the opportunity for fraudulent information to be submitted and lowers the chance of someone showing up to vote and being told their name is not on the list (because a third party neglected to turn in the person’s voter registration information in a timely manner). Such groups like the American Civil Liberties Union are against the measure, claiming it is a voter suppression tactic by those who seek to hinder the voting process for African Americans and other minorities. They recently protested the measure at the State House. “African Americans are four times more likely than whites to register to vote via a community drive. Only three percent of whites get registered that way,” said Executive Director for the ACLU, Victoria Middleton. Clemmons says it’s insulting that anyone would suggest the bill is in any way discriminatory and that the bill is “equal for [all groups] across the board.” The House is scheduled to resume debate on this issue when they return from furlough next week.