RICHMOND, Virginia — Gov. Abigail Spanberger has restored voting and other civil rights to 66,085 Virginians with past felony convictions, reversing a restrictive process imposed by former Gov. Glenn Youngkin.
Those receiving restorations may now vote, serve on juries, run for public office and become notaries. Spanberger’s administration said it resumed proactive outreach and streamlined applications while continuing to review each case individually with law enforcement agencies.
Youngkin ended a process developed under previous Republican and Democratic governors that made restoration more accessible. His administration required individual applications but disclosed little about its criteria, producing delays that left thousands waiting for decisions.
Spanberger said people who have completed their sentences deserve an opportunity to participate fully in civic life. House Speaker Don Scott, whose rights were restored after a federal conviction, praised the move but said fundamental rights should not depend on who occupies the governor’s office.
Virginia remains one of the few states where felony convictions can result in permanent disenfranchisement unless a governor intervenes.
That could change in November. Voters will consider a constitutional amendment that would automatically restore voting rights upon release from incarceration, largely removing the governor from the process. The proposal cleared two consecutive legislative sessions as required.
Early voting begins Sept. 18, giving newly eligible Virginians time to register before the Nov. 3 election.
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