florida constitutional amendments 6 from

Florida Constitutional Amendment 6 Passes

Voters Approve Measure to Restore Voting Rights to Ex-Felons

On Tuesday, November 3, 2020, Florida voters passed Amendment 6 by a margin of 61% to 39%, bringing about an end to disenfranchised felons who have fulfilled their sentences. The amendment now restores voting rights to these individuals automatically. Before the passage of Amendment 6, only former felons who had completed all terms of their sentence, including probation and parole, could petition the governor to have their voting rights restored. This process was time-consuming and could take years or even decades. Amendment 6 simplifies this process by automatically restoring voting rights to felons who have completed their sentences, regardless of the crime committed. The amendment does not apply to those convicted of murder or sexual offenses, who must still apply to the governor to have their rights restored. The passage of Amendment 6 comes after years of advocacy by voting rights groups and criminal justice reform advocates, who argue that disenfranchisement of felons is a form of voter suppression and disenfranchisement.

Impact of Amendment 6

The passage of Amendment 6 is expected to have a significant impact on Florida's electorate, as it will add an estimated 1.4 million people to the voting rolls. This could have a major impact on future elections, particularly in close races. It is also expected to have a positive impact on recidivism rates, as studies have shown that restoring voting rights to felons can help them to successfully reintegrate into society.

Conclusion

The passage of Amendment 6 represents a major victory for voting rights advocates and criminal justice reform advocates, and it is a significant step forward in the fight to end mass incarceration and disenfranchisement in the United States.