Texas House Bill HB3776

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to automatic cancellation of a voter's registration upon felony conviction.

Impact

The proposed bill significantly impacts the state's election laws, particularly in how voter registrations are managed in relation to felony convictions. By ensuring that felons are automatically removed from the voter rolls, this legislation would impose a stricter regulation on voter eligibility. This could lead to a more extensive revision of voter registration processes and perhaps increase accountability within local election offices to maintain compliance with the new law.

Summary

House Bill 3776 focuses on the automatic cancellation of a voter's registration upon felony conviction. The bill seeks to amend the Texas Election Code, specifically Section 16.031, by stipulating that once the registrar receives notification regarding a felony conviction from the Secretary of State, the voter's registration will be canceled immediately. This change is aimed at maintaining current and accurate voter rolls by removing individuals who are no longer eligible to vote due to felony convictions.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 3776 may arise from discussions about voter rights and disenfranchisement. Advocates against the bill might argue that automatic cancellation without an individual review is an unjust approach, disproportionately affecting marginalized communities. They may assert that individuals who have served their time should have an opportunity to reintegrate into society, including the right to vote. This concern raises broader questions about rehabilitation and civic engagement for those with felony records.