Good news -- Florida's restrictions on voter registration, which has lead to staggeringly low registration, have been permanently removed by a federal judge.
Tallahassee, FL – Civic groups and Florida voters scored a decisive victory today when a federal judge indicated he will permanently remove controversial restrictions on community-based voter registration drives.
Federal Judge Robert L. Hinkle issued an order stating the court will grant the group’s request to permanently remove the restrictions once he receives confirmation that a federal appeals court has dismissed the case. [...]
Today, the Court indicated that it will grant a joint motion filed by both the civic groups and the state of Florida permanently removing the restrictions. Both the civic groups and the state of Florida have agreed not to appeal the ruling. The parties separately signed a settlement that ends the case once the court granted this motion and awards the civic groups’ their attorneys’ costs.
The lawsuit to stop the new restrictions was filed by the League of Women Voters of Florida, Rock the Vote, and the Florida Public Interest Research Group Education Fund. And there will be no appeal. It's over.
Judge Robert Hinkle ruled that the restrictions were unconstitutional and a violation of the Voting Rights Act.