MS HB1609

Adds bribery and perjury to the list of crimes that permanently revoke voting rights, joining arson, armed robbery, carjacking, embezzlement, murder, rape, statutory rape, sexual battery, and human trafficking.

Allows voting rights restoration five years after release from confinement or five years after conviction (whichever is later) for persons convicted of theft, obtaining money under false pretense, forgery, bigamy, and other disenfranchising crimes not listed as permanent disqualifications.

Requires county registrars and election commissioners to track and remove voters whose rights are revoked and restore rights when eligible, updating the Statewide Elections Management System quarterly with conviction information.

Creates exception to firearms prohibition for persons who have had their voting rights restored under this act, allowing them to possess firearms similar to those receiving pardons or federal relief from disability.

Takes effect July 1, 2024.