Felony convictions can have a significant impact on a person’s life, including their right to vote. In Arkansas, like many other states, felons are not automatically granted the right to vote after completing their sentence. However, there are ways for felons to have their voting rights restored.
According to Arkansas law, felons whose sentence has not been discharged or pardoned are not eligible to vote. To have their voting rights restored, felons must complete their sentence and pay all fines and fees. Once these requirements are met, felons may register to vote with their local county clerk. It is important to note that felons who have been convicted of certain felony crimes, such as murder or sexual offenses, may not have their voting rights restored.
Restoring voting rights for felons in Arkansas is a complex process that involves navigating the criminal justice system and understanding the state’s laws and regulations. The process can be made easier with the help of a civil rights attorney or other legal professional who is knowledgeable about the process. By taking the necessary steps to restore their voting rights, felons can participate in the democratic process and have their voices heard.
Key Takeaways
- Felons whose sentence has not been discharged or pardoned are not eligible to vote in Arkansas.
- Felons must complete their sentence and pay all fines and fees to have their voting rights restored.
- The process of restoring voting rights for felons in Arkansas can be made easier with the help of a legal professional.
Voting Rights for Felons in Arkansas
Rights of Convicted Felons
In Arkansas, convicted felons lose their right to vote while they are serving their sentence. Once they have completed their sentence, including probation and parole, they may register to vote. However, if they have not paid all fines, fees, and restitution, they may not be able to register to vote.
Restoration of Voting Rights
Convicted felons in Arkansas can have their voting rights restored by providing proof to the county clerk that they have been discharged from probation or parole, paid all probation or parole fees, satisfied all terms of imprisonment, and paid all applicable court costs, fines, or restitution. After providing this proof, they may register to vote.
It is important to note that not all convicted felons are eligible to have their voting rights restored. Certain felony crimes, such as murder and certain sexual offenses, permanently disenfranchise the offender.
Additionally, Amendment 4 to the Arkansas Constitution, which was passed in 2018, requires a supermajority of the Arkansas General Assembly to approve any future changes to the state’s voting laws that would disenfranchise voters. This amendment was passed in response to concerns that certain groups, such as African Americans, were being disproportionately disenfranchised due to felony convictions.
Overall, while convicted felons in Arkansas may lose their right to vote while serving their sentence, they can have their voting rights restored after completing their sentence and paying all fines and fees.
