The Kentucky House approved a bill last week aimed at restoring voting rights to some felons after their sentence is complete.
House Bill 70, passed 75-25, proposes a constitutional amendment that would allow restoration of voting rights once a felon receives a final discharge from parole or probation, or their maximum prison sentence has expired. Rep. Lynn Bechler (R-Marion) was one of the 25 nay votes.
It would exempt felons convicted of treason, intentional killing, sex crimes or bribery and require ratification by voters before taking effect.
Currently, felons in Kentucky must receive a partial pardon from the governor before they can vote again.
