Restitution orders following a conviction for human trafficking and restoration of the right to vote to a person barred from voting as a result of a felony conviction. (FE)
The bill will directly affect the criminal justice system in Wisconsin by tightening the conditions required for restoring voting rights. This may lead to a significant number of individuals remaining disenfranchised longer than was previously intended under existing laws. The immediate restitution requirement, particularly for human trafficking victims, places greater responsibility on the convicted individuals and creates a more robust framework for ensuring victims receive compensation in a timely manner, reflecting a shift towards victim-centric legislation.
Assembly Bill 87 focuses on two primary changes in Wisconsin law: the restoration of voting rights for individuals with felony convictions and the enforcement of immediate restitution orders for those convicted of human trafficking offenses. Under the current law, individuals can have their voting rights restored only after completing their terms of imprisonment or probation, and only if certain financial obligations are met. AB87 seeks to enhance these conditions by mandating that all fines, costs, and restitution must be fully paid before one's voting rights can be reinstated.
Opposition may arise around the voting rights component of AB87, as critics might argue that requiring complete payment of fines and restitution places undue burden on individuals trying to reintegrate into society after serving their sentences. Advocates for criminal justice reform may view this provision as an additional hurdle that could perpetuate cycles of poverty and disenfranchisement. On the other hand, proponents assert the need for accountability and support the bill's emphasis on victim restitution, particularly given the severity of human trafficking crimes.