Bill > SB1353

This bill amends Tennessee law to modify voting rights for individuals with criminal convictions, making it easier for people who have committed infamous crimes to restore their right to vote. Specifically, the bill removes previous requirements that individuals pay restitution, court costs, or child support before regaining voting rights, and allows people to have their voting rights restored after completing their sentence without necessarily restoring all of their citizenship rights. The legislation clarifies that individuals convicted of an infamous crime are only ineligible to vote while actively imprisoned, on parole, or on probation, with exceptions for certain serious crimes like first-degree murder, aggravated rape, treason, and voter fraud. The bill establishes a process for obtaining a certificate of voting rights restoration, which can be issued by various authorities such as wardens, parole officers, or pardoning authorities. Additionally, the legislation requires the Department of Corrections to regularly communicate with the Secretary of State about individuals newly eligible to vote, and creates a streamlined process for voter registration that includes verification procedures to ensure eligibility. These changes aim to reduce barriers to voting for individuals who have completed their criminal sentences, promoting broader civic participation.

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https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=SB1353&ga=114