Connecticut Senate Bill SB00022

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/15/19
• Refer: 1/15/19
• Refer: 2/7/19

Caption

An Act Concerning Payment Of Certain Fines Prior To The Restoration Of Electoral Privileges.

Impact

If enacted, SB00022 would remove financial barriers that prevent many individuals from regaining their voting rights, thereby potentially increasing voter participation among populations historically disenfranchised due to felony convictions. The new provision would apply to existing laws and would make it easier for formerly incarcerated individuals to exercise their fundamental right to vote upon their release from confinement, marking a significant shift in the state's approach to voting rights restoration.

Summary

SB00022 aims to reform the process of restoring electoral privileges for individuals who have been convicted of felonies. The bill proposes to eliminate the requirement that these individuals must pay all fines associated with their conviction before their voting rights can be restored. This legislative change reflects a growing recognition of the importance of providing equitable access to the electoral process, particularly for those who have served their time and are seeking to reintegrate into society.

Sentiment

The discussion around SB00022 has been largely positive among advocates for criminal justice reform, who view the bill as a step toward making the electoral process more inclusive. However, there remains significant contention around the issue among legislators and constituents. Supporters argue that financial obligations should not be a barrier to participating in democracy, while opponents may view the removal of these conditions as undermining the consequences of felony convictions.

Contention

Notable points of contention focus on the belief that restoring voting rights without requiring the payment of fines may diminish accountability for criminal actions. Some critics argue that the bill could implicitly signal a leniency towards individuals who have committed felonies. Balancing concerns over public safety and individual rights continues to be a challenge in the legislative process surrounding SB00022, highlighting deep societal divides over criminal justice and voting rights.