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Florida Passes Amendment to Restore Felons' Voting Rights

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Yvette Demerit puts on a pin-back button in support of Amendment 4 at the Ben & Jerry's "Yes on 4" truck where people learned about Amendment 4 and eat free ice cream in Miami, Oct. 22, 2018.
Yvette Demerit puts on a pin-back button in support of Amendment 4 at the Ben & Jerry's "Yes on 4" truck where people learned about Amendment 4 and eat free ice cream in Miami, Oct. 22, 2018.

Most Florida felons who have finished their sentences will be able to vote again in future elections.

Voters on Tuesday approved Amendment 4, which says that most felons will automatically have their voting rights restored when they complete their sentences or go on probation. The amendment exempts those convicted of sex offenses and murder.

People gather around the Ben & Jerry's "Yes on 4" truck as they learn about Amendment 4 and eat free ice cream at Charles Hadley Park in Miami, Oct. 22, 2018.
People gather around the Ben & Jerry's "Yes on 4" truck as they learn about Amendment 4 and eat free ice cream at Charles Hadley Park in Miami, Oct. 22, 2018.

Supporters said the state's current system was too onerous. It required felons to wait at least five years after completing their sentence before they could file a request with the governor and Cabinet. About 1.5 million people are affected. Nearly all states allow felons to vote after completing their sentences.

Opponents argued that the measure treats all felons alike and takes away the ability to judge each individually.

The measure was placed on the ballot by petition.

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