Democrats and electoral rights groups want progress on legislation in Springfield that would give people in prison across the state the ability to vote just weeks after being convicted of a felony or lesser crime.
Some in favor of the bill cite the Illinois Constitution, which says an incarcerated person must have their right to vote restored by the completion of their sentence, leaving room for the legislature to decide when before release that is.
Stevie Valles, executive director of Chicago Votes defended the legislation to skeptical lawmakers.
House Minority Floor Leader Rep. Patrick Windhorst, R-Harrisburg, critically questioned the proposal.
Though the bill has not moved in the legislature aside from an informative hearing, proponents said they are requesting the legislature to consider placing the text within a larger omnibus package – which means the bill could pass without being put through the regular legislative process.
Story from Illinois Radio Network
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