Panel Kills House Bill to Restore Felons’ Voting Rights

Senate bills could keep option pushed by Gov. McDonnell alive this session.

By Sam Isaacs Capital News Service RICHMOND – Gov. Bob McDonnell and other key Republicans, as well as Democratic legislators, say they are disappointed that a House subcommittee today killed proposals to automatically restore the voting rights of nonviolent felons who have served their prison sentences. “I am very disappointed in today’s vote against these constitutional amendments. Once individuals have served their time and paid their fines, restitution and other costs, they should have the opportunity to rejoin society as fully contributing members,” McDonnell said. The constitutional amendments subcommittee of the House Privileges and Elections Committee considered, and folded together, nine constitutional amendments introduced by …

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Letter to the Editor

FTE: Double Jeopardy and the Right to Vote

One active Ashburn resident supports the governor’s push to restore rights to those who have served their time.

On Wednesday, Jan. 9, 2013, Gov. Robert McDonnell delivered the Annual State of the State Address to the combined houses of the Virginia General Assembly. In his address Governor McDonnell surprised many people both in the chamber and listening at home when he made a full-throated appeal to restore the voting rights of non-violent felons upon completion of their sentences and legal obligations. In making the case for restoration of felons rights (the legal term being re-enfranchisement) Gov. McDonnell made the following statement: “As a nation that believes in redemption and second chances, we must provide a clear path for willing individuals to be productive members of society once they have served their sentences and paid their fines and…

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