House Bill 616 aims to amend various sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated concerning the restoration of citizenship rights, particularly the right to vote for individuals convicted of infamous crimes. Key changes include the clarification that a person may regain their voting rights upon the expiration of their sentence, including any probation or parole, and that they can petition for restoration of full citizenship rights after completing their sentence. The bill also specifies that individuals who have completed their sentences will receive a certificate of voting rights restoration, which serves as proof of their eligibility to register to vote.

Additionally, the bill modifies the criteria for voter registration for those with prior convictions, ensuring that individuals are not further disenfranchised due to the inability to pay monetary obligations such as fines or child support. It establishes a process for verifying eligibility and issuing voter registration cards, while also mandating that the Department of Correction regularly updates the Secretary of State on newly eligible individuals. Overall, the bill seeks to streamline the process of restoring voting rights and reduce barriers for those who have served their sentences.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 2-2-102, 2-2-116, 2-2-139(a), 2-2-139, 2-2-139(b), 2-19-143, 40-29-101, 40-29-105(b)(2), 40-29-105, 40-29-202, 40-29-203