Iowa House Passes Felon Voting Rights Bill

A bill that automatically restores voting rights for felons, with restrictions has been passed by the Iowa House of Representatives.

The bill would automatically grant felons the right to vote after serving their sentence. They would have to pay all restitution they owe victims before getting the right restored.

At least six Democratic representatives voiced concerns over the bill before Wednesday’s vote. “I’m angry that we are even considering this bill today in this chamber where the rights of Iowans should be a top consideration," Democrat State Representative Monica Kurth says. "This bill is alarmingly discriminatory, because it once again favors those with the money to pay off the fines over those with little money.”

The bill does not apply to people who are convicted of murder, rape, child endangerment resulting in death, and felony or voter fraud.

District 73 Republican State Representative Bobby Kauffman said the bill is fair. “We aren’t talking about a late water bill. We are talking about somebody who hurt someone. We are talking about someone who potentially killed someone, not just some dismissive bill they can’t pay.”

The bill passed on a 51-44 vote. The bill passed the Iowa Senate in early March before the session was put on hold.


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