MONTGOMERY, Alabama — An Alabama lawmaker has reintroduced legislation aimed at simplifying how people convicted of felonies regain their voting rights, reviving a proposal that advanced last session but never reached the House floor. Sen. Linda Coleman-Madison pre-filed SB 24 for the 2026 session, seeking to require the Board of Pardons and Paroles to notify eligible individuals of the steps needed to restore their voting status once they complete their sentences and pay required fines.
Under current law, many formerly incarcerated Alabamians are eligible to re-register, but there is no mandate for the state to explain the process. Voting-rights advocates say the lack of information results in thousands of residents believing they are permanently disenfranchised when they are not. The Southern Poverty Law Center said it supports efforts that reduce administrative barriers and strengthen civic participation.
The bill mirrors Coleman-Madison’s 2025 proposal, which passed the Senate and a House committee before stalling. It would also require the Board of Pardons and Paroles to notify the Secretary of State when individuals meet all requirements for restoration. Advocates argue the measure increases efficiency and reduces confusion for both voters and election officials.
Alabama’s prisons house more than 21,000 people, and state data shows most individuals convicted of felonies never permanently lose their voting rights. Supporters say the legislation is needed to ensure eligible residents know they can participate in elections once they satisfy legal criteria.
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