Following a 15-6 vote in the Delaware Senate, it looks like the state will amend its constitution and restore voting rights to non-violent offenders who have completed their sentences. The governor is expected to sign the Hazel D. Plant Voter Restoration Act into law, culminating a two-year legislative process requiring passage in two consecutive General Assemblies for any type of constitutional change.
“As Americans we believe in second chances and the right to vote,” said Ben Jealous, President and CEO of the NAACP. “Today’s vote in the Delaware Senate ensures that when a fellow citizen who has made a mistake, did their time, and paid their debt to society will be able to join the rest of their fellow Americans in performing our civic duty of voting.”
Jealous made his first trip to Wilmington last month, lobbying for the bill. But NAACP leaders started their campaign encouraging state legislatures about the restoration of rights last year.
Full Article: Delaware restores voting rights to felons — NewsWorks.