AN ACT TO RESTORE THE RIGHT OF SUFFRAGE TO CHARLES HOWERY OF YAZOO COUNTY, MISSISSIPPI.
Summary
House Bill 4139 is a private suffrage bill that restores the right to vote to Charles Howery of Yazoo County, Mississippi. The bill specifically names the individual and recites a long criminal history, including convictions for receiving stolen property, multiple burglary offenses, shoplifting, robbery, and related probation revocations, before stating that he has since conducted himself as a law-abiding and honorable citizen.
The measure operates as a direct legislative restoration of suffrage for one person rather than a broad change to election law. If enacted, it would remove the voting disqualification tied to Howery’s felony convictions and allow him to register and vote again in Mississippi. The bill takes effect immediately upon passage.
Impact
HB4139 would amend no general election statute, but it would create a person-specific exception to Mississippi’s constitutional and statutory disenfranchisement rules by restoring voting rights to Charles Howery. Its legal effect is limited to this named individual and would not automatically change the status of other persons with felony convictions. The bill therefore affects suffrage eligibility, voter registration, and the administration of election law only as to Howery.
Sentiment
The available record suggests a straightforward, individualized restoration bill with no recorded committee debate or votes showing opposition. The bill’s language is affirmative and rehabilitative, emphasizing that the named individual has become a law-abiding and honorable citizen. In the absence of transcripts or recorded dissent, the overall sentiment appears supportive or at least procedural rather than contentious.
Contention
The main point of potential contention in suffrage restoration bills is usually whether a person with multiple felony convictions and probation revocations should have voting rights restored, and this bill presents that issue directly through its detailed recitation of Howery’s criminal record. Supporters would likely focus on rehabilitation and reintegration, while critics could object to restoring suffrage after repeated property and violent offenses. No specific objections, amendments, or divided votes are provided in the available materials.