SB 58 and HB 72 threaten democracy and voting rights
In recent weeks, state and federal policymakers have introduced legislation that could have far-reaching consequences for democracy, voting rights and legal oversight in North Carolina. Among the most concerning bills are SB 58 and HB 72, which seek to restrict the Attorney General’s authority, and the federal SAVE Act, which would impose strict voter registration requirements.
SB 58 and HB 72: Restricting the Attorney General’s Authority
SB 58 and HB 72, titled the AG Restrict Challenge to Presidential Executive Orders Bill. This bill expands the legal proceedings in which the Attorney General is barred from participating under GS 114-2.8, including challenges that would invalidate an executive order issued by the President of the United States. Additionally, it broadens the scope of restrictions beyond foreign litigation, limiting state legal actions against federal policies.
This legislation appears to be a knee-jerk reaction to a multi-state lawsuit that North Carolina, along with 22 other states, has joined to challenge the current administration’s executive orders. These orders address critical issues such as birthright citizenship, funding cuts to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and federal funding freezes for states. SB 58 and HB 72 undermine North Carolina’s ability to advocate for its residents by stripping the Attorney General’s ability to contest such federal actions. Both bills are currently under review in their respective rules committees.
The SAVE Act: A Modern-Day Poll Tax
The Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act at the federal level introduces stringent new voter registration requirements. The SAVE Act would require voters to present a birth certificate or U.S. passport to prove their citizenship when registering (or re-registering) to vote in federal elections. While the bill technically applies only to federal elections, it would allow North Carolina lawmakers to enact a similar law for state elections.
This legislation is particularly concerning because it imposes financial barriers that disproportionately impact Black voters and other voters of color. For many individuals, obtaining the required documents presents a significant cost burden—new passports cost $165, and ordering a birth certificate can cost up to $60. Additionally, the SAVE Act will upend voter registration drives and prevent voter registration online or by mail, as individuals must show proof of citizenship documentation in person. This change would create an unnecessary administrative burden for already underfunded and overwhelmed election officials.
How You Can Take Action
While these legislative developments are alarming, there are immediate steps you can take to fight back:
- Oppose SB 58 and HB 72: Call State Senator Settle and House Representative Kidwell and demand that they allow the Attorney General to do the job they were elected to do rather than unjustly stripping power from state offices.
- Fight the SAVE Act: Contact members of the North Carolina Congressional Delegation and urge them to vote NO on the SAVE Act. Our partners at Democracy NC have made it easy to take action with just a few clicks. Find the link to the call-to-action in the description.
- Stay informed: As these bills progress, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and Bluesky for the latest updates on policy developments.
Resources
- SB 58/HB 72: Read more here
- SAVE Act Action Alert: Take action here
Jovita Lee, Ed.D. is the policy director for Advance Carolina and convener of the North Carolina Black and Brown Policy Network. Her advocacy and policy work focuses on equity for Black and Brown communities, operating on both state and national levels.