The Voting Rights Act outlaws literacy- and language-based voting qualifications or prerequisites. Section recognizes widespread voting discrimination against Alaskan Native, American Indian, Asian, and Hispanic language minority citizens and seeks to eliminate it by requiring the provision of minority language materials and assistance related to the electoral process -- oral and/or written -- to language minority groups. Other VRA sections, including 4(e) and 208, are also relevant to language access. The most recent reauthorization of the Voting Rights Act in extended Section through 2032, and determinations were adjusted to occur every years instead of 10.
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The Voting Rights Act outlaws literacy- and language-based voting qualifications or prerequisites. Section recognizes widespread voting discrimination against Alaskan Native, American Indian, Asian, and Hispanic language minority citizens and seeks to eliminate it by requiring the provision of minority language materials and assistance related to the electoral process -- oral and/or written -- to language minority groups. Other VRA sections, including 4(e) and 208, are also relevant to language access. The most recent reauthorization of the Voting Rights Act in extended Section through 2032, and determinations were adjusted to occur every years instead of 10.
Cite this term
Election Security Glossary. (2026). Language Assistance. In Election Security Glossary. Retrieved August 21, 2026, from https://electionsecurityglossary.com/glossary/language-assistance
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