The Sentencing Project: Disenfranchisement News & Updates - 8/09/07

Washington: Editorials, Advocates Still Steaming at Supreme Court Decision The Olympian published an editorial last week expressing disappointment in the Washington Supreme Court's 6-3 decision to continue the voting ban for citizens with felony convictions that have yet to pay restitution and/or court fees. The editorial states that "no one is arguing that felons shouldn't pay court costs, fines and restitution to their victims. What the Legislature must repair is the court decision that says failure to pay is sufficient grounds to deny voting rights." During a press conference this week, Gov. Chris Gregoire, also in support of re-enfranchisement was quoted as saying: "I just fundamentally don't believe in a debtors' prison. And so to hold people right to vote away from them simply because they're low income and don't have any money and can never fathom the capacity to pay back their financial obligation I just think is a lack of incentive of what's to do right in this country." Erika Wood, counsel for the Brennan Center for Justice, wrote an op-ed in the Seattle Post-Intelligencer arguing that the current law creates a lifetime voting ban for low-income individuals as a result of the interest and surcharges imposed by the state. Wood shared the story of Beverly Dubois, who has completed her sentence but has outstanding financial obligations, to highlight how the law can act as a permanent barrier to the franchise. Although Ms. Dubois makes monthly payments, interest continues to accrue on her debt at a rate that is more than she can afford on her fixed disability income, Wood writes. "It is time for Washington lawmakers to get in step with the national movement to restore voting rights to people who are out of prison, living and working in the community." "States across the country have come to understand that giving someone a stake in the political process helps build community ties and foster social responsibility." For additional coverage of the Washington decision, see the Spokesman Review. - - - - - - Help The Sentencing Project continue to bring you news and updates on disenfranchisement! Make a contribution today. Contact Information -- Email: [email protected], Web: http://www.sentencingproject.org