Mitch Ford, Tayna Fogle, and Ed Monahan testify for restoration of voting rights for former felons in Louisville.

It is estimated that more than 128,000 adults who have served their sentences have been disenfranchised in Kentucky as a result of a felony conviction.  Section 145 of the Kentucky Constitution states that a person convicted of a felony is not entitled to vote, though felons may have their civil rights restored if they receive an executive pardon from the governor.

Working with a broad coalition of groups, KFTC members in recent years have helped create public awareness of this issue and are urging legislators to put the question on the ballot. KFTC believes that restoring the right to vote to all former felons upon completion of their sentence will strengthen our democracy.

Current Status

This year as last, the restoration legislation passed out of the House and was killed by the Senate. In 2008, House Bill 70  passed out of the House Elections, Constitutional Amendments & Intergovernmental Affairs Committee 7 to 1 on Feb. 5. But House leaders stalled the bill on the House floor, not allowing a vote until April 1. It passed easily, 80-14. However, it was much too late in the session for it to be taken up by the Senate.

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Take Action

1. Leave a message for your state representative and senator on the Legislative Message Line (800-372-7181, open 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday) asking them to support restoration of voting rights..  Message: "I urge you to support a constitutional amendment to restore voting rights to former felons who have served their debt to society."

2. Become a member of KFTC or donate above your yearly dues.  As a grassroots organization, our strength lies in our membership.  Each new member gives us more clout in Frankfort, and your donations allow us to be the most active grassroots lobbying group in the state.