In an important ruling for voter rights, the U.S. Supreme Court Monday struck down an Arizona law that required people registering to vote to show "proof" of citizenship. It found the state law conflicted with the federal National Voter Registration Act of 1993, designed to make voter registration simpler for individuals nationwide.
It's a powerful rejection of the law Arizona adopted amidst growing hostility toward immigrants and fears of voter fraud, some wildly exaggerated. Now, as the court enters the final week of its current term, it is expected to release decisions in three major cases, all involving equality, that could have a profound impact in other areas.
? Marriage. This involves two cases the court heard together: a challenge to the federal Defense of Marriage Act, which defines marriage as being between a man and woman; and Proposition 8, a 2008 California ballot initiative that banned same-sex marriage.
? Voting. This case involves a challenge to a section of the Voting Rights Act of the 1960s meant to reduce racial discrimination in voting laws, mostly in the South. A challenge from Shelby County, Ala., seeks to eliminate the required review of changes in state and local election laws by the U.S Justice Department.
? College admissions. A challenge by a young white woman denied admission to the University of Texas seeks to overturn racial preferences.
June 24 is the last scheduled day for opinions. It could be an exciting seven days.