TBO.com - TBO is Tampa Bay Online

New Rule Has Returned 115,000 Florida Felons To Voter Rolls

ADVERTISEMENT

The Associated Press

Published: June 18, 2008

TALLAHASSEE - More than 115,000 felons who completed their sentences have had their civil rights restored since a new state rule went into effect 14 months ago, Gov. Charlie Crist said Tuesday.

The rule by the Board of Executive Clemency, which Crist chairs, restored rights almost automatically, ending a policy of requiring the panel to act individually on restoration of rights requests. The rights include voting and the ability to get state and local licenses for certain types of jobs.

"Once somebody has truly paid their debt to society, we should recognize it," Crist said. "We should welcome them back into society and give them that second chance. Who doesn't deserve a second chance?"

The 115,000 Crist cited account for more than half of all felons in the state who have had their rights restored during the past 14 years, according to the governor.

The governor made the announcement at a two-day summit of state officials, lawmakers, community activists, prison ministers and others to brainstorm ideas for keeping former inmates from returning to crime after they are freed.

Share this:

Loading Comments...

Email Print

ADVERTISEMENT