Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee Introduces "Coretta Scott King Mid-Decade Redistricting Prohibition Act of 2013"

Statement

Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, a Senior Member on the House Judiciary Committee, released the following statement after the introduction of the "Coretta Scott King Mid-decade Redistricting Prohibition Act of 2013:

"In light of yesterday's historic decision in Shelby County v. Holder, a case upsetting nearly half a century of well-settled jurisprudence, I have introduced legislation that prevents states from attempting mid decade Congressional redistricting for the purpose of Congressional apportionment until after the next decennial census, unless required by a court in compliance with the Constitution or the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Let me be clear, this legislation applies to federal elections, not state and local elections.

"We cannot afford to sit back and watch our country move backwards, as legislators we must act. The Voting Rights Act of 1965 is no ordinary piece of legislation, for it represents our country and this Congress at its best because it matches our words to deeds, our actions to our values. And, as is usually the case, when America acts consistent with its highest values, success follows. But based on the Shelby case and its rationale, it is clear that Voting Rights Act is needed more than ever. The Voting Rights Act has been one of the most effective civil rights laws passed by Congress and needs to be reinforced vigorously.

"I will continue to advocate for justice, equality, and fairness to our country's most sacred right: the right to vote. Congress must act now -- let's start with passing the Coretta Scott King Mid-decade Redistributing Prohibition Act of 2013."

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