Local

Florida Rights Restoration Coalition Commemorates 5 years since the passing of Amendment 4

Felon voting rights The Florida Supreme Court is siding with Gov. Ron DeSantis in a legal dispute over restoring voting rights to felons with unpaid fines. (WFTV.com News Staff)

ORLANDO, Fla. — Monday, the Florida Rights Restoration Coalition will celebrate the fifth anniversary of the passing of Amendment 4.

WATCH CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS

This constitutional amendment restored voting rights for 1.4 million people with felony convictions in Florida in 2018 and became law on January 8, 2019.

READ: What to expect in Florida’s special session this week

“Amendment 4 changed how we see ourselves as returning citizens and how society sees us and treats us, and for that, I’m forever grateful,” said Neil Volz, FRRC Deputy Director.

Amendment 4 restored voting rights to non-violent felons after they have completed their sentence, including parole and probation.

READ: Sunday: Last day for Early Voting in Orange County

The amendment does not apply to felons convicted of murder or sex crimes.

At the time of the amendment’s passing, there were about 1.5 million non-violent felons in Florida who had served their time but had not had their rights restored.

READ: Federal transportation money headed to Florida

The Orlando Magic will also celebrate the historical day by honoring FRRC’s Deputy Director Neil Volz at the Orlando Magic’s Civic Engagement Game Night on Monday.

Volz will receive the Orlando Magic Diversity Game Changer award for his work with FRRC.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.

0