Felon voting rights in Alabama
The Mobile Register reported yesterday (in an article reporting cost-cutting measures the State may adopt in reaction to the defeat of a referendum to reform the tax structure in Alabama and raise more revenue),
The governor said his proposed Pardons and Paroles [Board] legislation would include provisions to expedite the restoration of voting rights to felons who have completed their sentences or have otherwise been released and paid restitution. Riley vetoed a freestanding voter restoration bill earlier this year, angering many black Democrats who strongly supported the bill. Some observers have that decision may have hurt Riley's tax reform efforts.
The Birmingham News reported today (in the print edition only) that the governor's spokesman David Azbell said the details of the bill would be revealed on Monday when the special session of the Legislature convenes.