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Bill

HD 1684

An Act increasing voter registration and participation to help prevent recidivism

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Russell Holmes

Bill expands voter registration access for individuals with criminal records to increase civic participation and potentially reduce recidivism through enhanced community reintegration.

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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HD 1684

Legislative bill overview

HD 1684 proposes measures to increase voter registration and participation among individuals with criminal justice involvement, particularly those returning from incarceration. The bill aims to address barriers that prevent this population from voting and engaging in the civic process as a strategy to reduce recidivism rates.

Why is this important

Voting and civic engagement have been associated with lower recidivism rates in research, as they can increase social integration and sense of stake in community outcomes. Currently, many formerly incarcerated individuals face practical and legal barriers to voting registration, creating obstacles to their reintegration. Removing these barriers could improve public safety outcomes while addressing questions about political participation rights.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of eligibility: Disagreement over which individuals with criminal records should regain voting rights (those on probation/parole vs. those who completed sentences; violent vs. non-violent offenses)
  • Effectiveness claims: Whether voting participation actually reduces recidivism or if other factors are more determinative of rehabilitation outcomes
  • Implementation costs: Questions about funding for outreach, registration infrastructure, and program administration in correctional facilities
  • Competing values: Tension between expanding democratic participation and public concerns about crime victim rights and community safety priorities

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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