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House approves unified restoration-of-rights process after prolonged floor debate
Summary
Lawmakers passed Senate Bill 407 to establish a single court petition process for restoring rights of citizenship, clarifying when voting and firearm rights can be restored separately. The bill drew extended debate over costs, sworn statements and barriers such as child support and fees.
The Tennessee House approved Senate Bill 407 on third reading after extensive floor discussion about how people convicted of felonies regain rights of citizenship, including voting and firearm rights.
Sponsor Representative Hosey and others said SB 407 creates one process for anyone seeking restoration of rights of citizenship, requires petition to a circuit court, requires notice to the district attorney and elections coordinator, and clarifies which rights may be restored and in what circumstances. The bill allows courts to restore one or more rights (for example, voting but not firearm rights) and codifies factors a court should consider for restoration.
Several members warned the bill could erect barriers for returning citizens. Representative Parkinson and Representative…
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