SEATTLE (AP) — Washington state lawmakers have voted to automatically restore voting rights to people who have been released from prison after committing felonies, even if they’re still on parole. With the support of majority Democrats, the state Senate passed the measure Wednesday night, following earlier approval by the House. It now heads to Gov. Jay Inslee, who is expected to sign it. The main sponsor is a Democratic lawmaker who was incarcerated herself before becoming a lawyer. Supporters call the issue a matter of racial justice, considering the disproportionate impact of the criminal justice system on people of color.
Washington state OKs bill to give voting rights to parolees
