Tennessee House Bill HB0445

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/28/25
• Refer: 2/5/25
• Refer: 3/25/25
• Refer: 4/8/25

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 2; Title 4; Title 22; Title 36; Title 39 and Title 40, relative to rights of citizenship.

Impact

If enacted, HB 445 could notably impact the legal landscape for voting rights among felons in Tennessee. By redefining the conditions under which individuals can have their voting rights restored, the bill may increase voter registration and participation among people who have previously been disenfranchised due to their criminal records. It establishes new procedures for individuals to petition the court and demonstrates that they meet the requirements for restoration of citizenship rights, thereby potentially reducing the barriers previously faced during this process.

Summary

House Bill 445, introduced in Tennessee, seeks to amend existing laws concerning the restoration of citizenship rights specifically affected by felony convictions. The primary focus of the bill is to streamline the legal process for individuals to regain their right to vote upon fulfilling certain conditions, including the completion of their sentences and the payment of restitution. The bill proposes significant modifications to Tennessee Code Annotated's stipulations related to the restoration of voting rights, placing a greater emphasis on the legal restoration processes rather than relying solely on gubernatorial pardons or court orders.

Contention

The discussion surrounding HB 445 likely encompasses both support and opposition from various stakeholders. Proponents argue that it promotes fairness and social reintegration by allowing individuals who have served their time the ability to fully participate in the democratic process. Conversely, opponents may express concerns about safeguarding electoral integrity and the implications of restoring rights to those with serious criminal backgrounds. The balance between ensuring rights for all citizens and maintaining the integrity of the electoral system presents an essential point of contention in the discourse surrounding this bill.