The presidential election is starting to take shape and voting happens in September. Anyone 18 or older can vote, obviously. But what if you are in custody? What if you’re serving a sentence in prison? What if you have a criminal history? Can you still vote? Below are answers to these questions, and other similar questions, in regards to California:
- Even if you’ve been convicted of a misdemeanor, you may still vote.
- If you are a convicted felon and are currently serving your sentence in prison, or are on parole, you are not allowed to vote.
- As soon as you are released from prison and no longer need to follow up with your parole officer, your voting rights are restored.
- If you are in custody or jail, you may vote, as long as you are accused of a misdemeanor (not a felony).
These voting rights and restrictions are not the same in every state. Some will be the same while others may differ.