FINAL BILL REPORT

SB 5207

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

C 43 L 19

Synopsis as Enacted

Brief Description: Concerning notification of felony voting rights and restoration.

Sponsors: Senators Dhingra, Hunt, Saldaña, Darneille, Das, Cleveland, Kuderer, Pedersen, Salomon, Nguyen, Rolfes, Hasegawa, Keiser and Randall.

Senate Committee on State Government, Tribal Relations & Elections

House Committee on State Government & Tribal Relations

Background: Voter Registration. Persons who are age eighteen or older; are United States citizens; have lived in the state, county, and precinct for 30 days immediately preceding an election; and have not been convicted of an infamous crime are entitled to vote under the Washington State Constitution. A person with a felony conviction may have their voting rights provisionally restored upon completion of their sentence in a Department of Corrections (DOC) facility and, if applicable, completion of a period of community custody. A provisional restoration of voting rights may be revoked if the person fails to comply with legal financial obligations.

A person may have their voting rights permanently restored after serving a sentence for a felony conviction by:

Community Custody. Certain felony offenses require the offender to serve a period of community custody after completing their sentence in a DOC facility, with periodic reporting to DOC and certain court-imposed conditions. These offenses include:

Reentry and Applicable Documents. DOC must develop individual reentry plans for persons leaving the authority of DOC after completion of their sentence and, if applicable, terms of community custody. The reentry plan must contain a plan to maintain family contact, an individualized portfolio of achievements while incarcerated, and a plan that includes education, employment, substance abuse and mental health treatment, family reunification, and other areas needed to facilitate successful reintegration. The American Civil Liberties Union voting guide is included in the release paperwork for persons releasing from a prison or work release facility.

Summary: Prior to termination of DOC authority over an inmate, DOC must notify the inmate of the process for provisional and permanent restoration of voting rights. DOC must also provide the inmate with:

Votes on Final Passage:

Senate

37

12

House

76

21

Effective:

July 28, 2019