WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 1224

Expunction - As introduced, reduces from 15 years to 10 years the amount of time that must have elapsed since the completion of the sentence imposed for illegal registration or voting before filing a petition for expunction. - Amends TCA Title 2, Chapter 19 and Title 40, Chapter 32.

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

SB 1224 shortens Tennessee's waiting period for expunging voter registration/voting crime records from 15 to 10 years post-sentence completion.

Passed on Second Consideration, refer to Senate Judiciary Committee
#expunction
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 1224

Legislative bill overview

SB 1224 reduces the waiting period before individuals can petition to expunge records related to illegal registration or voting offenses from 15 years to 10 years after completing their sentence. The bill amends Tennessee's expunction statutes to allow faster record clearance for this specific category of offense.

Why is this important

Expunction allows individuals to legally deny that an offense occurred and removes barriers to employment, housing, and professional licensing. Shortening the waiting period from 15 to 10 years could help people convicted of voter registration or voting crimes reintegrate into society and access opportunities sooner, while remaining a substantial waiting period that maintains public accountability.

Potential points of contention

  • Election integrity concerns: Opponents may argue that shortening expunction timelines for voting-related crimes undermines public confidence in electoral processes or sends a message that such violations are less serious
  • Equitable treatment across offense types: Questions about why voter registration/voting offenses receive preferential treatment (10 years) compared to potentially more serious crimes with longer waiting periods
  • Timing and voting access: Advocates may question whether 10 years is still too long to restore civic participation rights for individuals who may have made mistakes with voter registration procedures rather than intentional fraud

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

Sign in to ask a question.