Friends of the Earth applauds House passage of HR 1, urges Senate to follow suit
WASHINGTON – The House of Representatives today passed HR1, the For the People Act, a landmark democracy reform bill that would expand and protect voting rights for all, end partisan and racial gerrymandering, get dark money out of politics, and restore transparency and accountability in our government. The passage of this bill occurs in the context of an unprecedented effort at the state level to suppress voters, particularly voters of color, with 43 states having introduced or pre-filed voter suppression bills since the November 2020 elections.
In response, Friends of the Earth President Erich Pica issued the following statement:
Throughout American history, people have fought to expand access and protect the freedom to vote. Today that fight has taken an important step forward with the House passage of HR1. Friends of the Earth thanks and commends every Member of Congress who supported this bill.
We urge the Senate to immediately follow suit by introducing and passing the For the People Act. Our broken political system has prevented our country from tackling critical threats facing our planet, from climate change to ecosystem collapse, and now is the time for deep reforms and bold leadership.
We particularly call on Senate Majority Leader Schumer to ensure that obstructionist and racist tactics like the filibuster are not used to thwart the will of the people, who voted in record numbers for leaders who believe that our democracy works best when every voice is heard.
Communications contact: Erin Jensen, (202) 222-0722, [email protected]