Federal Judge Remains Firm on Felon Voting Rights

A federal judge recently refused to delay his decision which would allow numerous Florida felons who have completed prison or jail sentences to register to vote and participate in the 2020 elections.

Last month, in a dispute over a 2019 state law, the judge ruled against the DeSantis administration aimed regarding a constitutional amendment to renew the voting rights of felons who have satisfied the terms of their sentences. To be able to vote, the law required felons to pay legal financial obligations such as court costs and fines associated with their convictions. The judge’s decision, however, said Florida cannot withhold the right to vote to felons who are truly incapable of paying financial obligations ordered by the court.

The federal judge also ruled that court fines and fees are also “taxes” aimed at financing government programs, and the obligation to pay them to vote is an illegal “poll tax.” Determining that most of the Florida felons who have served their time cannot settle unpaid court debts, the judge set out a mechanism the state can use so that felons can register and vote.

This update is published by The Law Offices of Mark Eiglarsh, a F ort Lauderdale criminal defense lawyer. Areas of practice include criminal defense, white collar crimes, federal and state drug crimes, fraud, DUI, sex crimes, domestic violence, and more. With over two decades of experience, Mark is committed to obtaining the best possible outcome for his valued clients under difficult circumstances. For more information or to schedule a consultation, please call 954-500-0003 in Broward or 305-674-0003 in Miami.

This information is provided for educational or informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. The information is not provided in the course of an attorney-client relationship and is not intended to substitute for legal advice.