Restoration of the right to vote to a person barred from voting as a result of a felony conviction. (FE)
The bill's implications are significant as it adds financial obligations and conditions to the restoration of voting rights. Proponents of SB69 argue that these conditions ensure that individuals take responsibility for their actions and fulfill all legal obligations before regaining their rights. This approach is seen as a means to promote accountability among those who have been convicted of felonies, encouraging them to complete their legal and financial commitments. However, the bill could disproportionately affect lower-income individuals who might struggle to meet these financial requirements, potentially disenfranchising a segment of the population that is already vulnerable.
Senate Bill 69 seeks to amend Wisconsin's voting laws, specifically concerning the restoration of voting rights for individuals who have been disqualified due to felony convictions. Under current law, individuals may regain their voting rights after completing their sentence, which includes imprisonment, parole, or probation. This bill introduces additional requirements that these individuals must fulfill before their voting rights can be restored, including the payment of all related fines, costs, fees, surcharges, and restitution, as well as the completion of any court-ordered community service related to the offense.
The discussions surrounding SB69 are expected to be contentious, with strong arguments on both sides. Advocates for the bill assert that enhancing the requirements for voting rights restoration is a necessary step to uphold the integrity of the electoral process. Conversely, opponents raise concerns about the bill reversing progress made in expanding voting access, particularly highlighting the potential for it to perpetuate systemic inequalities in the electoral system. Critics argue that adding financial barriers to voting rights restoration could lead to disenfranchisement of countless individuals who have served their time but lack the resources to pay fines and complete community service.