Petition request

That the House of Representatives repeal section 80(1)(d) of the Electoral Act 1993 to enable all New Zealand prisoners to be eligible to vote in New Zealand elections.

Petition reason

The Wellington Howard League believes New Zealand prisoners should have the right to vote. Voting is a fundamental human right. Voting is one way of participating in society. This supports prisoners making connections to the community that support their reintegration. The current disenfranchisement of New Zealand prisoners disproportionately affects Māori because over 50% of New Zealand prisoners are Māori, despite the fact that Māori make up only about 15% of the population.

Petition progress

  • Open for signatures
  • Closed for signatures
  • Select Committee
  • Reported
  • Referred to Minister
Number of signatures: 593
Date presented: 14 May 2019
Considered by: Justice
SC Report(s): 28 May 2020 (Final)
Presenting member: Hon Grant Robertson
Closing date: 18 Apr 2019