Inmates in Michigan will be able to vote after leaving prison in 2025.

On November 30, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed House Bill 4983 into law, ushering in a new era of expanded voting rights for the state's former inmates. This groundbreaking legislation, effective from June 2025, will automatically register those completing sentences for felony convictions as they prepare to leave prison.

The bill extends Michigan's automatic voter registration system, currently applicable when individuals obtain a driver's license, to other state agencies such as the Department of Corrections and the Department of Health and Human Services. Inmates leaving prison will be issued a state identification or driver's license from Michigan, automatically registering them to vote unless they choose to opt-out.

Michigan Department of Corrections spokesman Kyle Kaminski said, “Being engaged members of their communities, including voting, is an important element of reentry for all returning citizens.” State Rep. Penelope Tsernoglou, the bill's author, also highlighted the positive impact on those leaving prison, emphasizing the significance of being able to vote.

The legislation received support from Democrats, passing in the House on a party-line vote and securing Senate approval. Detroit Pastor Terrence Devezin and former inmate and community worker Vince King lauded the law, recognizing its role in helping individuals reintegrate into society by providing identification and voting rights. King highlighted the profound effect on political participation, allowing returning citizens to support candidates addressing crucial issues affecting their lives.

Whitmer said, “Today, we are expanding voting rights and strengthening our democracy.” The law removes barriers to civic engagement and fosters a sense of normalcy and belonging within communities. This new legislation complements other efforts to increase voting rights access, including a larger package of 23 election and democracy bills also signed by Whitmer.

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