Louisiana Citizenship Requirement Challenge (NCJW)
National Council of Jewish Women Greater New Orleans v. Landry
A pro-voting lawsuit challenging a Louisiana law requiring additional proof of citizenship to register to vote.
Background
The Greater New Orleans Chapter of the National Jewish Women Council sued Louisiana officials over SB 436, which requires voter registration applicants to submit additional proof of citizenship beyond the required sworn statement of eligibility. The plaintiffs argue that prospective voters were already required to attest that they are citizens on both the state and federal form, rendering the new requirements unnecessary. Additionally, the state has offered no guidance on how the law should be implemented and what forms of identification would satisfy the new proof of citizenship requirement. The group alleges that the law violates the National Voter Registration Act, the Civil Rights Act and the U.S. Constitution, and it asks the court to block its enforcement.
Why It Matters
SB 436 will make it more difficult to get registered and stay on the voter rolls. The state’s current plan to verify citizenship could inaccurately flag eligible voters as unqualified. The law also threatens low-income residents, young people, and those with past criminal convictions, who may not have access to important documents like birth certificates or passports.
Latest Updates
- Jan. 15, 2026: The lawsuit was consolidated with another case challenging the state’s documentary proof of citizenship requirement.
- Dec. 7, 2026: Trial is scheduled.
- August 1, 2025: Plaintiffs filed their complaint.