ELECTIONS-RIGHTS OF VOTERS

Amends the Election Code. Creates the Rights of Voters Article. Prohibits the imposition or application of a voting qualification or prerequisite to voting or standard, practice, or procedure by the State or any locality in a manner that results in a denial or abridgment of the right of any citizen of the United States to vote based on race or color or membership in a language minority group. Provides that a county, city, or town that has more than 5% of its eligible voters or 10,000 eligible voters that are members of a single language minority and are unable to speak or understand English adequately to participate in the electoral process shall provide voting or election materials in the language of that minority group. Requires notice of certain changes in the election process and allows for a public comment period. Alternatively, allows the election authority to submit proposed changes to the Attorney General for implementation. Prohibits the use of an at-large method of election in a manner that impairs the ability of members of a protected class to elect candidates of its choice or its ability to influence the outcome of an election. Creates the Voter Education and Outreach Fund as a special fund in the State treasury to deposit all penalties and charges related to violations of the provisions. Allows the Attorney General to commence a civil action in response to a violation of the provisions. Makes other and conforming changes. Provides that the amendatory Act may be referred to as the Illinois Voting Protection Act.