Tennessee House Bill HB0279

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/19/23
• Refer: 1/21/23
• Failed: 3/26/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 40, Chapter 29, relative to voting rights.

Impact

This bill has significant implications for Tennessee state laws regarding voting rights and child support. It shifts the landscape of voter eligibility, linking voting rights directly to child support compliance. Supporters of HB 0279 may argue that it fosters personal responsibility and encourages compliance with family law obligations, ultimately aiming to address issues of financial accountability. Conversely, critics could view this as a barrier to voting, disproportionately affecting low-income individuals who struggle with child support payments. The provisions for provisional restoration may mitigate some concerns but also introduce complexities in the voter registration process.

Summary

House Bill 0279 aims to modify the eligibility criteria for voter registration in Tennessee by implementing child support obligations as a prerequisite for restoring voting rights. The bill stipulates that an individual must be current on all child support obligations to apply for a voter registration card and to have their right of suffrage restored. This legislation also allows a provisional restoration of voting rights if individuals enter into a payment plan to address unpaid child support, provided they adhere to it. Failure to keep to the repayment plan may lead to the revocation of provisional voting rights by the court, which must offer legal counsel and a chance for individuals to explain their financial situations before revocation occurs.

Sentiment

Overall sentiment around HB 0279 is likely polarized. Advocates see it as a means to uphold child support responsibility while restoring a civic duty, reinforcing the notion that individuals should meet legal obligations before participating in the electoral process. Opponents contend that it may disenfranchise eligible voters, particularly those facing economic hardships, thereby exacerbating inequalities in political representation. The debate touches upon fundamental principles of democracy and access to the ballot box, bringing to light varying views on rights and responsibilities.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 0279 include its potential impact on historically marginalized constituencies. The requirement for being current on child support obligations raises concerns about fairness and equity in the electoral system. Critics fear that this law could create unnecessary barriers, potentially discouraging voter registration among those affected by economic instability. The process for provisional restoration, while intended to offer a form of relief, introduces the risk of mismanagement and confusion, placing additional burdens on the judicial system and the individual voters navigating these requirements.