Virginia Senate Bill SB224

Virginia 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/8/24
• Refer: 1/8/24

Caption

Voter registration; cancellation of registration by voter convicted of a felony.

Impact

The bill will directly impact the administration of voter registration and the responsibilities of general registrars in Virginia. By mandating cancellation of registrations for unqualified voters due to felony convictions, it encourages more rigorous enforcement of current laws concerning voter eligibility. This could lead to cleaner and more accurate voting rolls but may also raise concerns over voter disenfranchisement for those who have served their sentences. The potential for increased scrutiny on voter registration practices is a significant consequence of this legislation.

Summary

SB224 seeks to revise the Code of Virginia regarding voter registration, particularly focusing on the cancellation of registrations for individuals convicted of felonies. This bill allows general registrars to cancel voter registrations if they are aware that the individual has been convicted of a felony and has not had their voting rights restored. The measure is intended to clarify processes associated with maintaining accurate voter rolls and ensuring compliance with state requirements around voter eligibility after felony convictions.

Contention

Discussion regarding SB224 highlights concerns over the implications for individuals recovering from felony convictions. Advocates for reform argue that giving registrars the authority to cancel registrations without a comprehensive review process may lead to unjust disenfranchisement, particularly if individuals are not adequately informed of their status or the process for restoring their voting rights. Critics argue that the bill could disproportionately affect marginalized communities, where felony convictions may be more common, thus raising questions about equity in the electoral process.