Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin announced Friday that the civil rights to 3,496 formerly incarcerated individuals will be restored.
“I am encouraged that over 3,400 Virginians will take this critical first step towards vibrant futures as citizens with full civil rights,” Youngkin said in a statement.
“Individuals with their rights restored come from every walk of life and are eager to provide for themselves, their families and put the past behind them for a better tomorrow,” he added.
After release from prison, those convicted of felonies will be able to request that their civil rights be restored, including the right to vote, serve on a jury, and run for public office.
The governor’s office will work with the Secretary of the Commonwealth’s office and the Virginia Department of Corrections to restore the rights.
“The individuals are also vetted by the Department of Elections, Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services and the Compensation Board,” reported The Hill.
In March 2021, former Gov. Ralph Northam changed the state’s policy to restore civil rights to convicted felons upon completion of their sentences.
Virginia Secretary Kay Coles James said “The restoration of rights process provides a fresh step forward for individuals who have made mistakes, but have done their duty to our community and wish to be full and productive citizens of our Commonwealth”.
Under Virginia law, individuals permanently lose civil rights after being convicted of a felony. The governor can restore them, with the exception of the right to carry a firearm, which must be done through a local circuit court in Virginia.