Advocates for restoring voter rights to most felony offenders who have completed their sentences are expressing optimism about getting General Assembly approval. A bill in the Senate calls for voting rights to be restored after the completion of imprisonment, probation, or parole. It would be a constitutional amendment and require the backing of voters. Alaina Sweasy received a partial pardon from former Governor Matt Bevin but was asked for paperwork when she tried to vote.
“I did not receive a life sentence. I was not court-ordered to a lifetime of shame and I’m more than the worse thing that I’ve ever done. It should not be this hard to participate in the democratic process,” said Sweasy.
Cindy Heine is a longtime member of the League of Women Voters. Heine said sponsorship by London GOP Senator Brandon Storm offers reason for optimism.
“We have heard that Senate leadership is interested. They’re more supportive than they have been in the past and we believe that the version of this bill that was filed has the support of leadership,” said Heine.
Senate Majority Floor Leader Damon Thayer said he could support the amendment with the three-year waiting period for the restoration of civil rights like running for office or serving on a jury. Thayer added it would not be voted on this session but could be next year.
This amendment covers individuals not contained in Governor Beshear’s executive order restoring voting rights to some 200,000 people.
