MS HB1282

Allows veterans (as defined in Title 38 of the United States Code) convicted of nonviolent disqualifying crimes under Mississippi Constitution Section 241 to have voting rights automatically restored upon completion of all sentencing requirements.

Requires the Statewide Elections Management System to automatically restore a veteran's name to voter rolls, state voter roll, and county pollbooks once sentencing requirements are satisfied.

Modifies voting disqualification provisions in Mississippi Code Sections 23-15-11, 23-15-19, 23-15-125, 23-15-151, 23-15-153, and 23-15-165 to implement automatic restoration of voting rights for eligible veterans.

Distinguishes between suspension of voting rights upon conviction and automatic restoration upon sentencing completion, creating a time-limited disqualification for qualifying veterans rather than permanent disenfranchisement.

Effective date: July 1, 2020.