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SB 1211

Election Laws - As introduced, establishes automatic restoration of voting rights for people who complete their sentence, including any parole or probationary period. - Amends TCA Title 2; Title 40 and Title 41.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Charlane Oliver

SB 1211 automatically restores voting rights to Tennessee residents upon completing sentences, parole, and probation instead of requiring gubernatorial petition.

Passed on Second Consideration, refer to Senate State and Local Government Committee
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Bill Summary · SB 1211

Legislative bill overview

SB 1211 automatically restores voting rights to individuals who have completed their entire criminal sentence, including incarceration, parole, and probation. Currently, Tennessee requires individuals to petition the governor for voting rights restoration after completing their sentence. This bill streamlines that process by making restoration automatic upon sentence completion.

Why is this important

Approximately 470,000 Tennesseans are disenfranchised due to felony convictions, and the current petition process creates barriers that many eligible individuals never navigate. This change affects voter participation rates, representation of formerly incarcerated communities, and the practical reintegration of people back into civic life. It also reduces administrative burden on the governor's office.

Potential points of contention

  • Conservative concern: Some argue automatic restoration doesn't adequately distinguish between different crime severities or ensure sufficient rehabilitation period has elapsed; they may prefer maintaining discretionary review
  • Implementation complexity: Requires coordination between corrections, probation, and election officials to accurately track sentence completion dates across all three statutes
  • Broader debate over felony disenfranchisement: Supporters see this as criminal justice reform; opponents view it as weakening accountability or public safety protections in the voting process

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

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