MS SB2280

Establishes the Ease Access to Suffrage (EASE) Program within the External Affairs Division of the Office of the Secretary of State to facilitate 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 voting rights are fully restored by the next election after legislative approval.

Sets forth restoration criteria to include time required after release from Department of Corrections custody, required application information, proof of fine/fee/restitution payment, and proof of completed rehabilitation programs.

Requires applicants to retain a Mississippi House or Senate member to sponsor a suffrage bill, with Legislative Services Offices preparing the actual bill language based on division-prepared drafts.

Directs the Secretary of State to coordinate with the Lieutenant Governor, House Speaker, and relevant legislative committee chairs in establishing restoration criteria and promulgating administrative rules; effective July 1, 2024.