NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Tennessee lawmakers have passed legislation aimed at easing the process for people with felony convictions to restore their voting rights.
The measure, Senate Bill 336 / House Bill 687, now heads to the governor’s desk after clearing both chambers Thursday.
Under the legislation, people seeking to regain voting rights would no longer be required to pay all outstanding court costs before becoming eligible. The bill also replaces a rule requiring individuals to be fully caught up on child support with a new standard requiring 12 months of documented compliance with child support orders, including payment plans.
If signed into law, individuals would be eligible to restore their voting rights after completing their sentence, paying court-ordered restitution to victims, and remaining in compliance with child support obligations for at least one year.
Here’s a beautiful story of how one mother turned her grief journey into a gathering of gratitude… and organ donation awareness.
Robb Coles highlights a special event organized by Cari Hollis – whose 26-year old son Austin died two years ago. Austin agreed to be an organ donor – and that single gesture saved multiple lives.
Cari reached out to as many recipients she could find – several of whom traveled to Nashville for an emotional celebration in Austin’s honor. One woman – whose life was saved by receiving Austin’s lungs – put it simply: “He’s my angel”.
- Rhori Johnston
