The Tennessee Advisory Committee to the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights issued a report on voting rights in the state. The report was issued after a series of public hearings where the Committee heard from individuals, organizations, and professionals with specific knowledge of, and experience with, the conditions surrounding voting rights and the unique challenges faced in 2020.
Through this investigation, the Committee explored the topic of voting rights through two main themes: the civil rights effects on voting after the passage of Senate Bill 8005 and access to voting during the Covid-19 pandemic. The two inquiries are linked by their real and perceived impact on the legitimacy of the political process within the state of Tennessee. The report includes findings and actionable recommendations directed to both the Commission and key stakeholders in Tennessee. These recommendations are intended to promote research and enhance understanding of key themes as well as improve policies and procedures in the area of voting rights.