Elections; Alabama Voting Rights Act Commission established to prevent discrimination in voting; duties and membership provided; Secretary of State required to establish database on election administration
Impact
The bill further eliminates eligibility requirements for absentee voting, allowing any elector to cast an absentee ballot without having to meet previous qualifications. This change is aimed at increasing voter participation and simplifying the absentee voting process. Additionally, SB7 establishes the Alabama Voting Rights Commission, which is tasked with reviewing actions that could unjustly affect protected classes of voters. This commission will have the power to preclear certain official actions related to elections, thereby enhancing oversight and ensuring compliance with the newly established voting rights standards.
Summary
SB7, also known as the Alabama Voting Rights Act, introduces significant reforms to the voting process within the state, primarily focused on the restoration of voting rights to individuals with felony convictions. Under the proposed legislation, individuals convicted of crimes of moral turpitude would have their voting rights automatically restored upon fulfilling specific conditions, such as completing their sentence, including probation and parole, and settling any financial obligations linked to their sentence. This marks a shift from the current process, which requires individuals to apply through the Board of Pardons and Paroles for reinstatement of their voting rights.
Contention
Key points of contention regarding SB7 include concerns about maintaining election integrity and the possible implications of automatic voting rights restoration for individuals with felony backgrounds. Critics argue that such measures could potentially compromise the electoral process by allowing individuals who have committed serious crimes to participate in elections without adequate safeguards. Additionally, there may be apprehensions regarding the commission's authority and the nature of its oversight, particularly concerning the definitions of protected classes and what constitutes discriminatory practices in electoral processes.
Voting rights, restoration, application requirement and Certificate of Eligibility eliminated; Board of Pardons and Paroles to restore voting rights for individuals who meet criteria for restoration of voting rights
Criminal procedure; criminal convictions sealed under certain circumstances; procedures established; exceptions provided; civil cause of action established
Prohibit the use of any ranked-choice voting method in elections except for electors who vote by absentee ballot pursuant to the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act
Prohibit the use of any ranked-choice voting method in elections except for electors who vote by absentee ballot pursuant to the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act
Elections; Alabama Voting Rights Act Commission established to prevent discrimination in voting; duties and membership provided; Secretary of State required to establish database on election administration