Navigating the Voting Rights Restoration Process for Individuals with Prior Felony Convictions: Florida Case Study

• In Event: Public Policy and Collateral Consequences

Abstract

In recent years, we have witnessed an increasing push to reform voting regulations across the nation. Notably, there has been a recent movement to reform felony disenfranchisement laws that would reduce restrictions on voting rights among those who have been convicted of certain prior felonies. Although many states have reformed their felony disenfranchisement provisions, approximately 5.3 million Americans remain disenfranchised. Further, despite these legal developments, individuals with prior felony convictions face an increasingly difficult path to regaining their right to vote. Notably, criminal justice debt (fines, fees, and restitution) can serve as a significant factor prohibiting the reinstatement of rights. The focus of this study is on the recent changes to Florida’s felony disenfranchisement laws and the impact it has on the voting rights restoration process. First, the study will provide an overview of the recent changes to Florida’s disenfranchisement laws which condition re-enfranchisement on the payment of all legal financial obligations. Second, drawing from interviews with state agencies, the study will identify the mechanisms involved in the re-enfranchisement process and the related challenges. The study will conclude with policy recommendations to facilitate the voting rights restoration process for those with prior felony convictions.

Author

• Kaylee Noorman, Florida State University