Democracy Without Exception: Restoring the Right to Vote to People on Probation and Parole

Missouri Bill Could Let Thousands Vote While on Probation or Parole

Missouri lawmakers are considering legislation that would restore voting rights to tens of thousands of residents currently unable to vote because of felony convictions. Under current Missouri law, people convicted of a felony cannot vote while they are in prison or while they are on probation or parole. Their voting rights are restored only after they fully complete their sentence and supervision. A bipartisan bill sponsored by Rep. Melanie Sti…

Democracy Without Exception: Restoring the Right to Vote to People on Probation and Parole

“No taxation without representation” wasn’t just a catch phrase for the Founding Fathers. It was the idea that a government wasn’t legitimate if it could tax people who had no voice in the process. Consent of the governed through voting is essential for justifying governmental authority.  However, as we approach the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, this American promise remains unfulfilled for thousands of our…