HB37 Alabama 2021 Session

Updated Feb 22, 2026

Summary

Primary Sponsor: Laura HallRepresentative
Democrat
Session: Regular Session 2021
Title: Voting rights restoration, process of applying for Certificate of Eligibility to Register to Vote, eliminate requirement to pay fines and fees to regain right to vote, expand persons eligible for restoration of voting rights, Sec. 15-22-36.1, 17-3-31 am'd.
Summary: HB37 would simplify and broaden voting rights restoration for people with criminal convictions by removing the application process, waiving fines and fees, and expanding eligibility to those released from incarceration five or more years ago.
What This Bill Does
If passed, the bill would eliminate the need to apply to the Board of Pardons and Paroles for a Certificate of Eligibility to Register to Vote. It would also remove the requirement to pay all fines, court costs, fees, and victim restitution before voting rights are restored. Additionally, it expands eligibility to include people who have been released from incarceration for five or more years.

Who It Affects
Individuals with past criminal convictions who want to regain their right to vote, as the restoration process would be simpler and less restricted.
People released from incarceration five or more years ago, who would become eligible for voting rights restoration under the expanded criteria.

Key Provisions
Remove the requirement to apply to the Board of Pardons and Paroles for a Certificate of Eligibility to Register to Vote to have voting rights restored, and waive the obligation to pay fines, fees, and restitution prior to restoration.
Expand restoration of voting rights to include individuals released from incarceration for five or more years.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 22, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.
Subjects: Voters and Voting