Abstract:
This dataset describes state-level felon disenfrancisement. It has been common practice in the United States to make felons ineligible to vote, in some cases permanently. Over the last few decades, the general trend has been toward reinstating the right to vote at some point, although this is a state-by-state policy choice. Currently, state approaches to felon disenfranchisement vary tremendously. NCSL has divided states into four categories: Never Lose Right to Vote, Lost Only While Incarcerated | Automatic Restoration After Release, Lost Until Completion of Sentence (Parole and/or Probation; Sometimes Fines, Fees and Restitution) | Automatic Restoration After, Lost Until Completion of Sentence | In Some States a Post-Sentencing Waiting Period | Additional Action Required for Restoration. In all cases, "automatic restoration" does not mean voter registration is automatic. Typically, prison officials automatically inform election officials that an individual's rights have been restored. The person is then responsible for re-registering through normal processes. Some states, such as California, require voter registration information be provided to formerly incarcerated people. Additional information about this dataset can be found at https://www.ncsl.org/elections-and-campaigns/felon-voting-rights