Deceptive Practices and Voter Intimidation Prevention Act of 2021
Summary
The Deceptive Practices and Voter Intimidation Prevention Act of 2021 aims to protect the integrity of federal elections by prohibiting the intentional spread of false information regarding the voting process. Specifically, it makes it illegal to communicate materially false information about the time, place, or manner of an election, as well as voter eligibility requirements, with the intent to prevent someone from casting their ballot.
For citizens, this bill provides legal recourse and federal protection against voter intimidation and deceptive tactics, such as false claims about public endorsements or misleading instructions on how to register. Additionally, the bill mandates that the Department of Justice step in to correct misinformation if local officials have not already done so, ensuring voters have access to accurate information before heading to the polls. Individuals who are targeted by these deceptive practices would also gain the right to sue for civil relief to prevent further interference with their right to vote.