WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 2832

Remove felonies from reason to disqualify from voting

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Evan Hansen and 2 co-sponsors

HB 2832 allows individuals with felony convictions to register to vote after completing their sentences, promoting reintegration and enhancing voter participation in West Virginia.

To House Judiciary
#elections
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 2832

Summary of House Bill 2832: Remove Felonies from Reason to Disqualify from Voting

Bill Number: HB 2832
Introduced On: February 24, 2025
Current Status: To House Judiciary
Subject: Elections

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 2832 aims to amend the West Virginia Code to eliminate the prohibition on voter registration for individuals who have been convicted of certain felonies, provided they have fully served their sentences. The bill seeks to enhance voter participation by allowing those who have completed their incarceration, probation, or parole to re-register to vote. Additionally, it mandates that the Division of Corrections and the Division of Probation inform individuals of their renewed eligibility to vote upon their release or discharge.

Key Provisions

The bill proposes several significant changes to the existing voter registration laws:

  1. Removal of Disqualification:

    • The bill removes the current disqualification for individuals convicted of felonies from registering to vote after they have completed their sentence, including any probation or parole.

  2. Notification of Eligibility:

    • The Division of Corrections is required to notify individuals in writing of their renewed eligibility to register to vote upon their release from incarceration.
    • Similarly, the Division of Probation must inform individuals of their voter eligibility upon discharge from probation.

  3. Eligibility Criteria:

    • Individuals who have been convicted of felonies will regain their eligibility to register to vote upon:
      • Completion of their sentence of incarceration.
      • Issuance of a court order vacating their conviction.
      • Receipt of a pardon from the Governor.
    • Individuals on probation or parole can register immediately after completing their incarceration.

  4. Registration Timeline:

    • The bill clarifies that individuals cannot register to vote after the close of voter registration for an upcoming election.

Impact

The passage of HB 2832 would primarily affect individuals with felony convictions in West Virginia, allowing them to regain their voting rights and participate in the electoral process once they have served their sentences. This change aims to promote reintegration into society and enhance democratic participation among formerly incarcerated individuals.

Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced: February 24, 2025
  • Referred to: House Judiciary Committee on the same day of introduction.
  • The bill is currently under consideration and has not yet been voted on.

Conclusion

House Bill 2832 represents a significant shift in West Virginia's approach to voting rights for individuals with felony convictions. By removing barriers to voter registration, the bill seeks to foster a more inclusive electoral process and support the reintegration of individuals into their communities.

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

Sign in to ask a question.