The Sentencing Project: Disenfranchisement News & Updates -- March 29, 2007

Maryland: State Awaits Governor's Signature on Disenfranchisement Bill Formerly incarcerated individuals are expected to be able to vote again as a disenfranchisement reform bill awaits Governor Martin O’Malley’s approval, according to the Washington Post. The bill would repeal the three-year waiting period and lifetime voting ban on certain people with felony convictions under current Maryland law. The bill was approved by both the House and Senate after advocates and organizations rallied behind the legislation, according to the Baltimore Times. For additional coverage, see the Baltimore Sun and WJZ-AM. Florida: Governor Crist Hears First-hand Plea for Restoration of Rights Governor Charlie Crist recently heard five-minute pleas from various citizens to discuss their concerns and ideas – one of which was the request from a wife and mother who spent 30 days in jail and wanted her civil rights restored in order to attain a nursing license and make a living. “Everybody deserves a second chance,” said Crist, who told her the Cabinet is likely to take action that could help her within a few weeks. See the Palm Beach Post. North Carolina: Disenfranchisement Bill Introduced in House HB 1020, Voting Rights for Ex-Offenders, was introduced this week in the House. The measure, backed by the Black Caucus, would require that the Board of Elections and Department of Correction develop educational programs as well as notify individuals of their eligibility and provide a voter registration form. Colorado: Senate Expected to Move on Parolee Vote Restoration This Week In Colorado the parolee amendment to SB 83 should be voted on its second reading this week. During the bill’s public hearing, several persons testified, including a pastor with a prison ministry, the Colorado ACLU, and individuals currently on parole hoping to regain voting rights.