Bill > SB0407

This bill revises Tennessee's procedures for restoring citizenship rights for individuals with felony convictions, focusing primarily on voting rights restoration. The bill modifies several sections of Tennessee law to establish more specific criteria for regaining voting privileges after a felony conviction. Specifically, individuals must have their right of suffrage restored as prescribed by state law for each felony conviction, which requires meeting certain conditions such as paying court-ordered restitution, court costs (unless proven indigent), and being current on child support obligations. The bill also permanently bars individuals convicted of certain serious crimes like first-degree murder, aggravated rape, treason, and voter fraud from ever regaining voting rights. To restore citizenship rights, a person must file a detailed petition with the circuit court, providing comprehensive information about their convictions and eligibility. The petition must be accompanied by proof demonstrating their eligibility and merit for rights restoration. The court will notify district attorneys and election officials about the petition, who can object to the restoration. The bill standardizes the process by requiring the administrative office of the courts to develop uniform petition and order forms, making them publicly available. Ultimately, the bill aims to create a more structured and transparent process for individuals seeking to restore their citizenship rights after serving their criminal sentences.

Justice

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=SB0407&ga=114