FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 27, 2004

CONTACT:

Marty Durand, Legislative Counsel

(208) 344-9750 ext. 202

mdurand@acluidaho.org

“Get Your Vote Back!”

ACLU Provides Information on Felony Re-enfranchisement

As the November elections approach, The American Civil Liberties Union of Idaho is encouraging all eligible Idahoans to register and vote.  The organization is particularly wants ex-felons living in Idaho to know that they have the right to vote.  Upon completion of their sentences, ex-felons are not commonly informed that their civil rights are automatically restored and that they can register to vote.  Many ex-felons incorrectly believe that they can never vote again. 

In Idaho, the right to vote is automatically restored upon satisfactory completion of imprisonment, probation and parole.  Ex-felons do not have to petition the court or submit any forms before registering to vote.

“A thriving democracy needs the active participation of all of its citizens,” according to Marty Durand, ACLU of Idaho Legislative Counsel, “and many ex-felons are never informed that they regain their right to vote once they have finished serving their sentence.” 

The ACLU has produced an information sheet, “Restoring Your Right to Vote in Idaho” written in a straightforward style in a question-and-answer format.  The ACLU is offering the information sheet free to the public, political parties, candidates and community groups. 

“A vote is a voice.  It gives people power and lets them play a role in American political life.”  said Durand.  “People who have paid their debt to society need to know that they can, and should, vote.”

To request a copy of “Restoring Your Right to Vote in Idaho” contact the Idaho ACLU office at (208) 344-9750, write to:  ACLU of Idaho, P.O. Box 1897, Boise, ID  83701, or visit our website at www/acluidaho.org.

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