summary
Introduced
01/14/2025
01/14/2025
In Committee
01/14/2025
01/14/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
126th General Assembly
Bill Summary
Amend The South Carolina Code Of Laws By Amending Section 7-5-120, Relating To Persons Disqualified From Registering Or Voting, So As To Provide That Disqualification Due To A Felony Conviction Is Removed, And The Person's Voting Rights Automatically Restored, Upon Release From Prison; By Amending Section 7-5-170, Relating To Information Contained On Voter Registration Forms, So As To Delete The Requirement That An Applicant Affirm, Among Other Things, He Has Never Been Convicted Of A Felony Or Offense Against The Election Laws; And By Amending Section 7-5-185, Relating To Electronic Applications For Voter Registration, So As To Make Conforming Changes.
AI Summary
This bill amends South Carolina voting laws to automatically restore voting rights for individuals upon their release from prison after serving a felony sentence. Specifically, the legislation removes the previous restriction that disqualified individuals convicted of a felony from registering or voting, and mandates that when a person is released from prison, their voting rights are automatically reinstated. The Department of Corrections is now required to notify inmates in writing that their voting rights are restored upon release and provide written instructions on how to register to vote. The bill also updates voter registration forms to remove the requirement that applicants affirm they have never been convicted of a felony, reflecting the new policy of automatic voting rights restoration. These changes aim to reduce barriers to voting for formerly incarcerated individuals and promote civic participation. The new law will take effect upon receiving the Governor's approval, signaling a significant shift in South Carolina's approach to felon voting rights.
Committee Categories
Justice
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Referred to Committee on Judiciary (on 01/14/2025)
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=3&session=126&summary=B |
| BillText | https://www.scstatehouse.gov/sess126_2025-2026/prever/3_20241211.htm |
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