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HD 408

An Act relative to voting rights restoration

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Erika Uyterhoeven

Bill restores voting rights to felony convicts who completed sentences, expanding franchise access to approximately 40,000-50,000 disenfranchised Massachusetts residents.

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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HD 408

Legislative bill overview

HD 408 would restore voting rights to individuals with felony convictions who have completed their sentences, including those on probation or parole. The bill aims to expand the franchise by removing permanent voting disenfranchisement based on criminal history, aligning Massachusetts with states that allow incarcerated individuals or those under supervision to vote.

Why is this important

Approximately 40,000-50,000 Massachusetts residents are estimated to be disenfranchised due to felony convictions, affecting voting participation and civic engagement. This policy directly impacts criminal justice equity, representation of marginalized communities disproportionately affected by incarceration, and fundamental democratic participation rights.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of restoration: Whether voting rights should extend only to those who completed sentences, or also include those currently incarcerated or on active supervision—which affects significantly different populations
  • Public safety perception: Concerns about restoring rights to individuals convicted of violent crimes, despite completion of sentences, versus arguments that post-sentence punishment violates proportionality principles
  • Implementation mechanics: Questions about how to identify and notify eligible voters, update registration systems, and prevent administrative confusion between those who have and haven't regained eligibility

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

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