Contemporary Democratic America

1. Modern jury lists are drawn from voter registration and driver’s license lists, so that they are more likely to reflect the gender, racial, and ethnic makeup of the community. Many state governments, recognizing the importance and value of jury service, are passing laws to make juror service less burdensome. Previously, individuals with jobs deemed "important to society" (such as doctors and teachers) were granted automatic exemptions from jury service, but laws in many states are sharply limiting these exemptions. Other laws are shortening the amount of time an individual must serve and increasing the daily stipend jurors are paid, all in an attempt to make jury service possible for a greater number.

2. Legislation allowing citizens to vote when they renew their driver’s licenses, for example, and mail-in voting for shut-ins, are examples of recent efforts by many states to further broaden voter participation.

3. Challenges of fairness will persist in the coming centuries, as the American social landscape continues to evolve. Only through continuing active involvement can we remain an informed populace that pursues equal justice for everyone.

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