Felon voting rights

Convicted felons have their right to vote restored after they serve out their sentence and finish any parole or probation; however, they’re not always told about it. Rep. Bobby Joe Champion (DFL-Mpls) wants to make sure someone tells them their right to vote is restored.

HF545 would require Department of Corrections officials to notify individuals charged with a felony that a guilty plea or conviction will result in the loss of their civil rights, including the right to vote. Upon having their sentences fully discharged, they would be notified that the right has been restored.

Andre Corbett, a former inmate who now runs a Goodwill Easter Seals job readiness program for ex-offenders, said that although they are to receive notification of their civil rights status in a letter after being discharged, many ex-offenders never get the letter because they are frequently moving and living with friends and relatives.

The Office of the Secretary of State supports the bill, as it supports any effort to inform voters of their rights, said Beth Fraser, the office’s director of governmental affairs; meanwhile, Barbara Cox, director of government relations for the DOC, said the department is neutral on the bill.

Rep. Steve Gottwalt (R-St. Cloud) joined several members in opposing the bill, arguing it is unnecessary since the information is already provided to offenders.

“Government already gives notice to them in the discharge order, and I don’t assume that felons or anybody coming out of jail is necessarily ignorant,” Gottwalt said.

The House State and Local Government Operations Reform, Technology and Elections Committee approved the bill on a 9-7 vote March 26. Approved April 2 by the House Public Safety Policy and Oversight Committee, it now awaits action on the House floor.

Sen. Mee Moua (DFL-St. Paul) sponsors the companion, SF763, which awaits action by the full Senate.