Missouri House Bill HJR101

Missouri 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/5/22
• Refer: 5/13/22

Caption

Removes the restriction on persons judged incapacitated being able to vote

Impact

The passage of HJR101 would have significant implications for state laws governing voting rights. It would require a reevaluation of how incapacitation is defined and assessed, potentially leading to new guidelines for determining an individual's eligibility to vote. Additionally, this bill could facilitate greater accessibility measures to ensure that the voting process is accommodating for individuals with disabilities, thereby enhancing their participation in elections. The legislative discussions indicate a growing recognition of the importance of inclusive representation in governance and the necessity to align voting laws with modern understandings of disability and rights.

Summary

HJR101 proposes to amend current electoral laws by removing the restriction that prevents persons judged incapacitated from voting. This bill seeks to address the rights of individuals with disabilities, specifically those who may have been declared incapacitated through legal proceedings. By removing this restriction, HJR101 aims to promote inclusiveness in the electoral process and ensure that all citizens, regardless of their mental or physical condition, have a voice in the democratic process. The underlying principle of this legislation is rooted in the belief that voting is a fundamental right that should not be denied based on a person's mental state.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HJR101 include concerns about the safeguards in place to protect individuals judged incapacitated from being exploited or manipulated in the voting process. Some legislators may express apprehensions about ensuring that individuals retain autonomy while also guaranteeing that they are fully informed and making decisions free of coercion. Opponents of the bill might advocate for stringent criteria to assess incapacitation, arguing that a balance must be struck between empowerment and protection of vulnerable populations. The outcomes of these debates will greatly shape how the bill is perceived and potentially implemented if passed.