VOTING RIGHTS ATTACK FAILS FOLLOWING RALLIES As the 2021 legislative session drew to a close, AEA, along with several other organizations gathered on the steps of the Capitol to rally in support of voting rights. The speakers called for a renewed effort to make it easier for Arkansans to vote, following the passage of a series of bills similar to the Georgia voter suppression laws that made national news. Two days later, AEA leaders again participated in a press conference and rally inside the Capitol to speak out against SB485 by Sen. Kim Hammer-R, Benton. This bill sought to reduce the number of early voting days Arkansans had to cast ballots. The speakers at the event included Sen. Breanne Davis, R-Russellville, who called on her colleagues to maintain the current early voting rules. Following the remarks, attendees lined the stairwell to the House and chanted “Protect Our Vote” as representatives arrived for the floor session. After some debate on the House floor, the bill failed.
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ARKANSAS EDUCATOR
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