Constitutional Amendment/Repeal Literacy Test
Plain English Summary
This bill proposes a constitutional amendment to remove North Carolina's literacy test requirement for voter registration, which currently requires people to read and write any section of the Constitution in English. The amendment would be submitted to voters in November 2026, and if approved by a majority, would eliminate this registration requirement.
Arguments in Favor
Supporters argue that literacy tests have a well-documented history of being used to discriminate against Black voters and other minorities during and after the Jim Crow era. They contend that removing this outdated provision modernizes the state constitution and removes a vestigial tool of discrimination, even if it is not currently enforced. Advocates also note that federal law already protects voting access regardless of literacy level.
Arguments Against
Opponents may argue that the literacy test provision, even if not enforced, serves as a constitutional statement about voting qualifications. Some could contend that removing any voting-related qualification from the constitution represents a change to voter eligibility standards. Others might question whether removing an unenforced provision is necessary or if the focus should be on other election matters.
AI-generated analysis based on bill text. Always verify with official sources at ncleg.gov. This is not legal or political advice.
Sponsors
Primary Sponsor
Senator · District 47
Primary Sponsor
Senator · District 1
Primary Sponsor
Senator · District 48
