DOJ announces lawsuit against Texas over new election integrity law

Texas' bill rolls back voter accommodations that were implemented during the pandemic, as well as bans the state from sending unsolicited absentee ballot applications.

By Colton Salaz

Published: November 4, 2021 7:10pm

Updated: November 4, 2021 7:15pm

The Justice Department on Thursday filed a lawsuit against Texas over its voting bill that was signed into law in September.

According to The Hill, the bill rolls back voter accommodations that were implemented during the pandemic, as well as bans the state from sending unsolicited absentee ballot applications.

Republicans say these measures are meant to protect the integrity of the election, while Democrats say it is meant to suppress votes.

The DOJ's lawsuit argues that Texas is violating the 1964 Civil Rights Act by limiting resources for disabled voters or those who can't read.

"Our democracy depends on the right of eligible voters to cast a ballot and to have that ballot counted,” said Attorney General Merrick Garland. "The Justice Department will continue to use all the authorities at its disposal to protect this fundamental pillar of our society.”

This is the second lawsuit by the Biden administration targeting states that have passed election integrity bills. Back in June the DOJ announced it was suing Georgia for similar reasons to that of Texas.