South Carolina ACLU Takes Legal Action Against DMV Over Voter Registration Denials

South Carolina ACLU Files Lawsuit Over Voter Registration Issues

In an important development just two weeks ahead of election day, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has taken legal action against the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The lawsuit claims that the DMV unlawfully denied thousands of South Carolinians their right to register to vote. This situation has raised concerns about the voting rights of many residents, particularly young people about to reach voting age.

Alarming Statistics from the ACLU

The ACLU’s findings are both striking and troubling. Over the past 13 months, roughly 17,564 young people—specifically 17-year-olds who would turn 18 by the next election—were not given the opportunity to register. According to the law, anyone applying for a driver’s license in South Carolina should be offered a chance to register to vote, including those nearing voting age. But it seems that something went awry along the way.

A Closer Look at the DMV’s Practices

According to the lawsuit, this failure to provide eligible teens with voter registration opportunities paints a larger picture of systemic issues within the DMV. The ACLU alleges that the DMV has a “pattern and practice of screening out registrants based on age.” This means that many 17-year-olds who expressed their desire to register on DMV forms never received the necessary registration forms, leaving them unable to vote.

The lawsuit has been filed in Richland County common pleas court, with the ACLU asking a judge to intervene. They are seeking a preliminary injunction that would require the DMV to halt its practice of excluding these young voters and to ensure that they are added to the voter rolls retroactively. This would allow those affected to participate in the upcoming election.

DMV Acknowledges the Issue

In a response to these serious allegations, Mike Fitts, the public information officer for the South Carolina DMV, stated that they are aware of the lawsuit and are taking the concerns seriously. The agency is currently working with the State Election Commission to find ways to address the issue. Fitts emphasized the importance of verifying voter registration information, encouraging residents to check their status through the State Election Commission’s website.

Hope for New Voters

The DMV has voluntarily reviewed its database and identified an estimated 17,000 individuals who were either denied registration or didn’t have their registrations forwarded to the Election Commission. Interestingly, about 6,000 of these individuals managed to register through other means, demonstrating some initiative amidst the confusion.

Allen Chaney, the ACLU of South Carolina’s legal director, expressed optimism about the situation. He stated, “I am hopeful that the court will order the Election Commission to add these thousands of young, first-time voters to the voter rolls so that they can cast a ballot on Election Day.” His comments highlight a sense of urgency for those affected.

State Election Commission’s Position

However, the ACLU has noted a troubling response from the South Carolina Election Commission, which reportedly has not made any accommodations for those affected by these registration issues. A spokesperson for the Election Commission confirmed that they are aware of the ongoing lawsuit but declined to comment on active legal matters.

The Importance of Voting Rights

As the clock ticks down to election day, this lawsuit highlights a critical aspect of democratic participation—ensuring that all eligible voters can register and make their voices heard. The situation emphasizes the need for transparency and action within government agencies responsible for facilitating voter registration.

With the future of thousands of young, eager voters hanging in the balance, the upcoming court ruling will be significant for South Carolina. Everyone is hoping for a swift resolution allowing those eligible to step into the voting booths on election day.