Since April over 115,000, or 20% of ex-offenders in Florida have regained their right to vote, thanks to new state legislation establishing a three-tiered severity level for Florida citizens convicted of a crime. Until April, Florida was one of only 3 states to strip all convicted felons of their right to vote; those who finish prison and probation previously had to endure a lengthy review by state officials in order to vote, serve on a jury, or hold a state-licensed job.
"Once somebody has truly paid their debt to society, we should recognize it, and we should honor it and we should welcome them back into society and give them that second chance," said Florida Governor Charlie Crist. (The New York Times)
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