MS SB2419

Establishes the Ease Access to Suffrage (EASE) Program within the Office of the Secretary of State's External Affairs Division to streamline voting rights restoration for disenfranchised individuals.

Requires the program to publish restoration criteria, create a public application portal with status updates, conduct media awareness campaigns, and ensure restored voting rights are effective for the next election following legislative restoration.

Sets criteria for suffrage restoration applications including time since release from Department of Corrections custody, required application information, proof of fine/restitution payments, and completion of rehabilitation programs.

Mandates applicants retain a state legislator to sponsor a suffrage bill, with the Legislature's offices drafting the actual bill and the portal tracking bill status through the legislative process.

Takes effect July 1, 2023, with the Secretary of State coordinating with legislative leadership and relevant committees to establish final criteria and regulations.