BFA calls on Congress to pass the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act

As the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act (VRAA) is reintroduced in the U.S. Senate, Business for America once again urges Congress to restore and modernize the Voting Rights Act of 1965—one of the most effective, bipartisan civil rights laws in American history.

At a time when Americans are divided on so many issues, this is something we should all be able to agree on: every eligible citizen deserves a fair and equal opportunity to vote, and the public deserves confidence in the integrity of our elections. For businesses, our strong democratic traditions aren’t just a moral good; they’re foundational to a healthy economy, competitive markets, and civic stability.

“The integrity of our elections is foundational to long-term economic stability,” noted Sarah Bonk, founder and CEO of Business for America. “When voters lose trust in our democratic traditions, it becomes a business risk, affecting everything from workforce morale to market confidence. The Voting Rights Advancement Act is a smart investment in America’s civic infrastructure.”

We support this legislation as a practical step to uphold constitutional rights, ensure fair standards across states, and reduce the political volatility that threatens long-term economic growth. The VRAA is a focused, evidence-based update to the Voting Rights Act of 1965—a law that has been reauthorized four times since its passage, each time with overwhelming bipartisan support and signed into law by a Republican president.

We believe this bill deserves support from across the political spectrum because it aligns with core constitutional principles:

• It fulfills Congress’s constitutional duty. The 15th Amendment guarantees the right to vote and gives Congress explicit authority to protect that right. The VRAA simply restores the tools needed to enforce the law.
• It provides legal clarity across states. The VRAA promotes consistency in election laws, helping states avoid costly litigation while giving voters and employers confidence in the system.
• It protects against government overreach. No matter who’s in power, voters should be protected from unfair or arbitrary election changes. This bill ensures transparency and accountability without imposing undue burdens on states.

As business leaders, we understand that democratic trust is not a given—it must be maintained. When citizens feel their voices don’t count, that mistrust spills over into our workplaces, markets, and communities. We’re proud of the role businesses have played in encouraging civic participation, and we remain committed to ensuring that every voice is heard.

We urge Congress to work across party lines and pass the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act. It’s time to restore a cornerstone of American democracy, one that protects the rights of voters and reinforces the strength of our republic.