Senate
Engrossed
2026 Regular Session

SB80

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AN ACT proposing an amendment to Section 145 of the Constitution of Kentucky relating to restoration of rights.

Propose to amend Section 145 of the Constitution of Kentucky to restore the voting rights of persons convicted of certain felonies after completion of imprisonment, probation, or parole; provide ballot language; submit to voters for ratification or rejection.

Introduced: January 13, 2026

Last action: March 13, 2026

To Elections, Const. Amendments & Intergovernmental Affairs (H)
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This bill proposes a change to Kentucky's Constitution that would automatically restore voting rights to people convicted of certain felonies once they have completed their imprisonment, probation, or parole. Currently, Kentuckians with felony convictions must seek individual approval to have their voting rights restored. If passed by the legislature, the proposed amendment would be placed on the ballot for Kentucky voters to approve or reject. Who it may affect: Kentuckians with felony convictions who have completed their sentences, as well as voters statewide who would decide whether to ratify the amendment.

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Legislative History

Jan 13, 2026 · Senate
Introduced In Senate
Jan 13, 2026 · Senate
To Committee On Committees (S)
Feb 9, 2026 · Senate
To State & Local Government (S)
Feb 18, 2026 · Senate
Reported Favorably, 1st Reading, To Calendar
Feb 19, 2026 · Senate
2nd Reading, To Rules (clerical)
Feb 19, 2026 · Senate
Posted For Passage In The Regular Orders Of The Day For Friday, February 20 2026 (clerical)
Feb 20, 2026 · Senate
3rd Reading, Passed 35-3
Yea: 35
Nay: 3
LegiScan roll call
Feb 23, 2026 · House
Received In House

Primary Sponsor

Portrait of Jimmy Higdon
Jimmy Higdon

Senator · Senate District 14

Primary sponsor
Jimmy.Higdon@kylegislature.gov
BallotpediaOfficial profile

Co-sponsors (3)

Portrait of Keturah Herron
Keturah Herron

Senator · Senate District 35

Co-sponsor
keturah.herron@kylegislature.gov
Portrait of Gerald Neal
Gerald Neal

Senator · Senate District 33

Co-sponsor
Gerald.Neal@kylegislature.gov
Portrait of Reginald Thomas
Reginald Thomas

Senator · Senate District 13

Co-sponsor
Reginald.Thomas@kylegislature.gov

Bill Text Versions

Engrossed (passed one chamber)

Most current
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Introduced (original)

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