Voting is the very foundation of our democracy. Society is best served when all voices are able to be heard.
People reentering society on parole or probation for a felony charge should have their right to vote restored immediately. These people join the workforce and pay taxes just like everyone else. Disenfranchising them is a form of taxation without representation.
This bill also ensures that formerly incarcerated people are informed of their voting rights. Many people go years before they learn their fundamental rights have been restored. That’s because West Virginia informs people in writing that their voting rights have been revoked, but does not inform them when they are able to re-register to vote.
It’s time to end this form of disenfranchisement and ensure that every eligible voter in West Virginia is informed of their rights by passing HB 2864.