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SC 511

Constitution; amend to restore suffrage to nonviolent felons upon completion of certain conditions.

2025 Regular Session

Proposes a constitutional amendment to restore voting rights for nonviolent felons after completing defined conditions.

Died In Committee
#constitution #elections
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Bill Summary · SC 511

Summary: South Carolina Senate Concurrent Resolution 511 (SC 511)

Overview

SC 511 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution proposing a constitutional amendment to restore voting rights to individuals convicted of nonviolent felonies after they complete certain conditions. The bill is a concurrent resolution, meaning it would propose a constitutional change that would require passage by both legislative chambers and, typically, approval by voters through a statewide referendum. The bill was introduced on January 20, 2025, and referred to the Constitution; Elections committees. It died in committee on February 4, 2025.

Purpose and Intent

  • The primary aim is to restore suffrage to nonviolent felons once they have completed the conditions specified in the amendment.
  • The measure would modify the state constitution, rather than relying on routine statutes, to govern voting rights restoration for this group.
  • By focusing on nonviolent offenses, the bill seeks to distinguish between nonviolent felonies and more serious offenses in terms of voting eligibility.

Key Provisions (as they would be drafted)

  • A constitutional amendment to restore the right to vote for individuals convicted of nonviolent felonies after completion of defined conditions.
  • The amendment would specify which conditions must be satisfied (e.g., completion of sentence, probation, parole, restitution, or other requirements as set forth in the measure).
  • The amendment would indicate the point at which suffrage is restored (automatic upon meeting conditions, or following an eligibility determination process).
  • The measure would outline the scope of applicability (which individuals are covered) and any exceptions or limitations as defined in the text.
  • Administrative and enforcement provisions may address how restoration is recorded and verified for election participation.

Note: The exact language of the conditions and any additional provisions are not provided in the summary information available.

Affected Parties and Impacts

  • Affected Individuals: People convicted of nonviolent felonies who would become eligible to vote after meeting the specified conditions.
  • Elections Officials: Responsible for updating voter eligibility records and ensuring accurate eligibility determination.
  • Advocacy and Civic Groups: Likely to monitor implementation, access, and compliance with the proposed constitutional change.
  • Victims and Community Stakeholders: Could be affected by changes in voting rights dynamics within communities.

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

  • Status: Died in Committee (as of February 4, 2025). No further legislative action on SC 511 occurred in the 2025 session.
  • Process if revived: As a concurrent resolution proposing a constitutional amendment, it would ordinarily require passage by both chambers and subsequent voter ratification in a statewide referendum to take effect.
  • Key dates:
    • Introduced: January 20, 2025
    • Referred to: Constitution; Elections (January 20, 2025)
    • Died in Committee: February 4, 2025

Notes

  • The information reflects the bill's status and structure as of the provided date. If reintroduced, the bill would need to navigate committee processes, floor votes, and potential ballot qualification for constitutional amendment.

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

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