Tennessee Senate Bill SB0133

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/14/25

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 2; Title 4; Title 38; Title 39; Title 41 and Title 55, relative to determining voter eligibility.

Impact

The introduction of this bill is likely to have significant implications for state laws surrounding voter registration and the treatment of felony convictions. The bill requires collaboration between the coordinator of elections and the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) to ensure that information regarding felony convictions is accurately assessed when determining voter eligibility. The emphasis on electronic verification systems aims to streamline the process, but it may also lead to unforeseen challenges in implementation, particularly regarding privacy concerns and access to accurate data.

Summary

Senate Bill 133 (SB0133) proposes several amendments to Tennessee's laws regarding voter eligibility and the verification of citizenship. It mandates the establishment of a secure electronic portal that county election administrators can use to confirm the citizenship of applicants seeking to register to vote. This portal will verify whether an individual is a non-citizen and will serve as a primary tool for the voter registration process, thereby preventing those who are not eligible from registering and voting. These changes are intended to enhance the integrity of the voting system in Tennessee.

Contention

A notable point of contention surrounding SB0133 revolves around its potential impacts on marginalized communities. Critics of the bill have raised concerns that increased verification measures could disproportionately affect eligible voters from minority backgrounds or those with criminal records, particularly individuals attempting to reinstate their voting rights after felony convictions. The requirement for proof of citizenship for obtaining driver licenses and identification further complicates access for some residents, leading to debate about whether such regulations serve to protect electoral integrity or create barriers to participation.