More than 70 companies call on Senate to pass voting right bill

More than 70 businesses have signed on to a letter urging the Senate to pass a sweeping voting rights bill.

The letter, which was spearheaded by Declaration for American Democracy, Vote.org, and Michelle Obama’s When We All Vote, said the Senate should pass the bill to address legislation that has already been introduced and passed in states aimed at restricting voter access, among other concerns.

“These bills work in stark contrast to our interests, and make it more difficult for Americans to have a say in key decisions from healthcare to the economy by limiting our ability to register to vote and cast a ballot early or by mail. Voting is a fundamental right in our country, and it is up to our elected officials to protect it,” the letter said.

“The For the People Act would override many of the abusive state laws that make it harder for millions to cast their ballots, and set national standards for free and fair elections,” the letter added. 

Some of the companies that have signed the letter include Ben & Jerry’s, Lime, National Hockey League, Patagonia, and Youth To The People. In addition to promoting the For the People Act, the signatories of the letter also said similar bills, including the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, should also be passed.

The For the People Act, otherwise known as H.R. 1 and S.1 in the House and Senate respectively, would require all states to provide mail-in ballots and automatic voter registration, would create new rules around redistricting, and would make Election Day a public holiday among other initiatives. The House has already passed its version, but it appears unlikely that the Senate will get 60 votes to overcome a filibuster.

“We applaud the House for passing the For the People Act, and urge the Senate to follow suit and do its part to protect our democracy. Together, we can ensure our employees and communities can safely and freely cast their ballots so every voice is heard and our elections reflect the will of the people,” the letter said.