Getting a Felon’s Voting Rights Restored in Massachusetts

Getting a Felon’s Voting Rights Restored in Massachusetts

Voting is one of the most fundamental rights given to American citizens, but that right can be lost if you’re a convicted felon. It’s up to the each state to decide their laws about restoring rights. The laws for Massachusetts include: If You’re Charged If you’ve been charged with a crime, but have not yet been convicted, you maintain your right to vote even if you are in jail awaiting your case to be heard. Whether it is a felony or misdemeanor charge doesn’t matter. Until you are convicted of a felony and incarcerated for that conviction, your right to vote remains in full force.  You need to request an absentee ballot by writing to the town clerk or election office in your hometown. Your family member can also download the absentee application and mail it to you to fill out and mail in. Browse State Prison information for Massachusetts Probation/Parole Once you have served your jail or prison time and have been released on probation or parole, or if you are placed on probation in lieu of jail, you retain your right to vote. For those Incarcerated Massachusetts does not allow inmates convicted of felonies and incarcerated as part of that sentence to vote while incarcerated. Restoration of Rights It is not necessary to apply for your voting rights to be restored. If you are not incarcerated you have the ability to register to vote and cast your vote in elections. Voter Registration in Massachusetts