Democracy Under Fire: Mississippi Votes Action Fund Calls Out HB 940 and Its Supporters

JACKSON,Miss., January 28,2025— Mississippi Votes Action Fund (MSVAF) strongly opposes House Bill 940, a misguided piece of legislation that perpetuates the systemic disenfranchisement of Mississippians. This bill undermines the very foundation of our democracy by doubling down on felony disenfranchisement—a relic of Jim Crow designed to silence Black and Brown voices. MSVAF has championed the dismantling of Mississippi’s felony disenfranchisement laws since our inception, and we will not stand idly by while the rights of our fellow citizens are under attack.

Statement from Arekia Bennett-Scott, Executive Director of Mississippi Votes Action Fund:
“HB 940 is not just another piece of legislation—it’s an attack on our fundamental belief in second chances and the power of redemption. Mississippi has one of the most restrictive felony disenfranchisement laws in the nation, and HB 940 seeks to deepen that injustice. At Mississippi Votes Action Fund, we know firsthand the transformative impact of restoring someone’s right to vote. Over the years, we have helped hundreds of Mississippians regain their voting rights, reengaging them in civic life and strengthening our democracy. Let’s be clear: this bill is a step backward, and we will fight it with everything we have.”

Statement from Hannah Williams, Policy Director of Mississippi Votes Action Fund:
“The authors and supporters of HB 940 must be held accountable for their blatant disregard for the rights of the people they were elected to serve. Instead of working toward policies that expand access to democracy, they are doubling down on exclusionary practices rooted in racism and oppression. This legislation is harmful, unnecessary, and does not reflect the values of a forward-thinking Mississippi. Mississippi Votes Action Fund will not hesitate to oppose anyone who supports this bill in the next statewide election. The people deserve leaders who believe in justice and equality, not barriers and disenfranchisement.”

Our Commitment
Mississippi Votes Action Fund is proud to endorse and oppose candidates for local and statewide office who align—or fail to align—with our mission of creating an equitable democracy. Mississippi Votes Action Fund represents the progressive and widespread demographic of young voters who want to see change. We will have no problem opposing the authors and supporters of HB 940 in the next statewide election. Our communities and next generation deserve leaders who champion inclusion, fairness, and progress, and we will ensure voters know who stands in the way of justice.

The Call to Action
We call on all Mississippians to stand with us in opposing HB 940 and protecting the rights of all citizens. Contact your legislators and demand that they vote against this harmful bill. Together, we can build a Mississippi where every voice is heard, and every vote counts.

About Mississippi Votes Action Fund
Mississippi Votes Action Fund is a 501(c)(4) organization dedicated to expanding voting access, protecting the integrity of our elections, and advancing progressive policies for the people of Mississippi. Since our founding, we have fought tirelessly to dismantle oppressive systems and empower communities across the state.