Civil Rights News: Block SC Voter ID Law, Attacks on Teachers, Implementing Health Reform

Group Protests SC’s New Voter ID Law
WSPA

Groups opposing South Carolina’s newly passed Voter ID law are now asking the U.S. Department of Justice to block its implementation. The law, which was vindicated by its potential to prevent voter fraud, is being contested by many South Carolina residents on the basis that it suppresses citizens’ voting rights. Those contesting the new law, like Delores Freelon, emphasize the massive cost barriers that this new law can create for residents, particularly if they are unable to retain their IDs through conventional channels. Freelon was born without a first name and will have to spend upwards of 700 to 1000 dollars and wait one to two years to receive the documentation necessary to attain a state photo ID. Others argue that voter fraud is not an inherent problem as it carries high risk for perpetrators and there is little information to demonstrate its actual frequency.

Union Chief Faults School Reform From ‘On High’
The New York Times

President Randi Weingarten of the American Federation of Teachers called for education reform that more accurately reflects the ideas and needs of teachers and their communities, in place of measures that disproportionately blame teachers for poor school performance. While some lawmakers have proposed large budget cuts and stricter teacher evaluations, the AFT argues that this is not the key. Rather than slashing education budgets, lawmakers should work more collaboratively with teachers and communities to recognize the commitments that teachers show to their students and families. This collaboration would breed better results for students and teachers alike, and enhance current state education systems.

Health officials ease requirements for states’ insurance exchanges
The Los Angeles Times

The Obama Administration has moved to ease requirements on states to help them set up new insurance exchanges in 2014 under the Affordable Care Act. These exchanges will provide health insurance for at least 24 million Americans who do not receive insurance through their employment. This move has received a lot of support among consumer groups, but these changes still face hostility in some state houses. The administration’s easing up of health care law requirements will allow states more flexibility in deciding how they will regulate insurance companies that sell plans in their exchanges.

Compiled by Candance Samuel, a summer intern