Quote:
Originally posted by smlwonderdst
I don't think they are informed of the fact that they can fill out paperwork and have their voting rights restored. I just found out this past June. They have to be educated to this fact. Now once they find this information out, its up to them to make it happen.
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This is a HUGE issue in Florida, and the subject of at least two lawsuits, one federal and one state. Florida is one of six states that bars former felons from voting. Those who want restoration must apply for clemency. In most cases, felons must appear before the Clemency Board (the governor and Cabinet), which decides who gets their rights back.
The Brennan Center in New York sued the state in federal court, alleging that the constitution deliberately disenfranchises felons, who disproportionately are black and male. The figure is nearly half a million who are permanently with out their voting rights.
The ACLU filed a separate suit in state court, saying the corrections system did not inform inmates that they could file their clemency request paperwork prior to their release. The ACLU earlier accused Gov. Bush of making the process difficult in an attempt to prevent black men from being able to vote.
Both of these cases have to go to trial. Who knows the outcome, but this is a huge issue with activists and groups that represent ex-felons.
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