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McCune opposes bill that
would make it easy
for convicted felons to vote
House Bill 1517 now being considered in the state
Senate
Rep. Jim
McCune is disappointed in a measure passed from the
House floor last week that would give voting rights back to convicted
felons immediately after they are released from prison -- even if they
have not paid court fees or restitution to victims. The 2nd District
lawmaker voted against the legislation and believes it is disrespectful
to victims and their families.
Under existing law, when a person
is convicted of a felony his or her right to vote is suspended. Felons
may apply to vote again once they have completed their sentences and
paid all court-ordered financial obligations.
If
House Bill 1517 were to become law, felons would just
have to re-register and their voting rights would be automatically
restored -- without having to complete community supervision or pay
court-ordered financial obligations.
"It amazes me that the
majority party continues to have more concern for felons than victims
and their families. This bill is really insulting to anyone who has been
victimized by someone," said McCune, R-Graham. "I stand
with victims and their families in opposing this terrible legislation."
It is estimated that approximately 160,000 felons could be
impacted by the bill. Some members from the majority party discussed "justice for all" in
their support of the measure on the House floor -- an argument McCune
does not support.
"To me, justice is served
when convicted felons pay their debts to society. If a person is going
to break the law, he or she needs to deal with the consequences," said
McCune. "Voting is a right, but it comes with clear
responsibilities that must be met. If we are to talk about justice for
all, let's focus on the victims first."
House Bill
1517 passed the House 53-43 and is now awaiting action in the
Senate Government Operations and Elections Committee.
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For more information, contact:
John
Handy, Assistant Director: (360) 786-5758
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