February 2023

Go to Prison and Cast Your Vote!

Assembly member Isaac Bryan has proposed an amendment to the state constitution that would allow persons in prison on felony convictions the right to vote. The proposal does not include any exemptions based on the crime committed. 

Two thirds of each chamber of the legislature must vote yes for the bill for it to appear on the ballot as a proposition.  For the measure to become a constitutional amendment voters must approve it by a simple majority.  21 states including California allow felons to vote as soon as they are released.  A 2020 constitutional amendment removed the requirement that felons complete their parole period before getting back the right to vote.

A two thirds vote of the legislature will be difficult to obtain.  Assemblyman Tom Lackey opposes the bill and said Wednesday it is a “betrayal” of crime victims.