The Felons

Do people convicted of felony crimes in the U.S. lose their right to vote? That’s a widely held assumption, but it’s not always true. Rules vary widely from state to state, something that has received little attention despite the fact that voting laws are a heated issue this election year.

States Vary Widely on Restoring Voting Rights for Felons

A convicted felon in Maine can vote from prison while a felon in Florida may never vote again, illustrating dramatically different state rules.

multimedia: video
Few Felons Regain Right to Vote in Florida Under Gov. Scott’s Changes

It is harder than ever in Florida for felons, especially African Americans, to regain their civil rights, including the right to vote.