Secretary Handel’s Statement Regarding U.S. Supreme Court Ruling on case dealing with Section 5 of the Voting Rights Act

Atlanta (June 23, 2009) – Georgia Secretary of State Karen Handel issued the following statement today following the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling in a Texas case that challenged the constitutionality of Section 5 of the Voting Rights Act of 1965: 

“I am encouraged that the Justices of the U.S. Supreme Court were unanimous in their skepticism of the constitutionality of how Section 5 of the Voting Rights Act is applied to states and jurisdictions today. I am, however, disappointed that the decision did not go further. While jurisdictions such as the utility district in Texas can now pursue ‘bail-out’ from Section 5 ‘preclearance,’ I remain concerned that this is not a real, viable alternative for most states and municipalities. 

“Over the next several days I will continue to consult with Counsel and the Attorney General’s office about the next steps in defense of Georgia’s voter verification procedures.”