Referred to the Committee on the Judiciary, and in addition to the Committee on House Administration, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
The Inclusive Democracy Act of 2023 would restore voting rights in federal elections to people convicted of criminal offenses, removing criminal conviction as grounds for voter disenfranchisement. The bill affects millions of Americans with criminal records, including those currently incarcerated, on probation or parole, and those who have completed their sentences. Under the legislation, states and the federal government would be required to notify individuals at the time of conviction that their voting rights are protected, and prisons would need to provide voter registration applications and absentee ballots to incarcerated individuals within strict timelines, typically within two to ten days of receipt. The bill establishes an effective date of November 2024 for the regularly scheduled general elections and directs the Election Assistance Commission to launch a national public awareness campaign within 180 days of enactment. The legislation provides enforcement mechanisms through the Department of Justice and private right of action, allowing individuals to pursue legal relief if states fail to comply within thirty days of notice of a violation.
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