Voting Rights for Felons in Washington
Suppose you were convicted of a felony in Washington State. In that case, your voting rights are restored once you are no longer under the supervision (in prison, in community custody, or on parole) of the Department of Corrections (DOC). After your rights are restored, you must re-register to vote to receive a ballot.
For inquiries about your status with DOC, please call 800-430-9674.
Eligibility Requirements for Vote in Washington State
To be eligible to vote you must be:
- A citizen of the United States
- A legal resident of Washington State
- At least 18 years old by Election Day
- Not disqualified from voting due to a court order
Is Washington a felon friendly state?
Washington is considered a felon-friendly state. It offers a range of opportunities for individuals with a criminal record to rebuild their lives. In terms of employment, Washington has a thriving economy with diverse job opportunities. Organizations like the Washington State Department of Corrections and the City of Seattle offer job training and placement services for felons.
Additionally, free grants are available to support education and job training. These include the Federal Pell Grant and state-specific grants. Furthermore, Washington also offers second chance apartments for felons, providing affordable housing options and a supportive community to help them reintegrate into society.
Can a felon vote in Washington State?
Yes, individuals convicted of a felony can vote in Washington state. If convicted of a felony in Washington state, another state, or in federal court, voting rights are automatically restored once the sentence is completed. Voting rights are restored upon release from prison. You must register to vote to receive a ballot. Misdemeanor convictions do not affect voting rights in Washington state.
Voting Rights for Felons in USA State
What are misdemeanor convictions?
Misdemeanor convictions refer to criminal offenses that are considered less serious than felonies. In the United States, misdemeanors are typically punishable by fines and/or a sentence of less than one year in a local or county jail. Examples of misdemeanors include:
- Disorderly conduct
- Petty theft
- Vandalism
- DUI (driving under the influence)
- Simple assault
- Minor drug offenses
Misdemeanor convictions do not typically result in the loss of voting rights, unlike felony convictions.
How many electoral votes Washington have in 2024?
Washington has 12 electoral votes in the 2024 presidential election.
A felon can run for public office in Washington?
In Washington state, a felon can run for public office, but with certain restrictions. Individuals with felony convictions can seek elected office, but they must have completed their sentence, including any probation or parole, and have had their voting rights restored. Washington state law allows individuals with felony convictions to run for office, but some offices may require specific qualifications or background checks that could disqualify individuals with certain types of felony convictions.
