We recently spoke on The Motivations with Gloria Taylor Radio Show about Felony Disenfranchisement.
Of NC’s 100 counties, 97 have a jail. Supervised by the county sheriff, these jails hold approximately 20,000 people per day. Contrary to popular belief, many of these people do not lose their right to vote while they are in jail. When sheriffs work with us to set up voter registration drives, we talk with dozens of voters who were not aware of their eligibility.
In NC, those who are actively serving a felony conviction are temporarily ineligible, however, 85% of jail residents who either are awaiting trial or have a misdemeanor conviction are eligible. Our work in jails provides a level playing field for voters who are incarcerated but have NOT lost their right to vote.
SHERIFFS are on the ballot right now in your county! They decide who is allowed inside jail facilities, including groups like ours, faith leaders, and families. Providing resources to jails about voting is a proven way to educate and empower incarcerated voters about their rights while also educating staff and sheriff’s offices.
This year new NC voter eligibility rules went into effect. Citizens convicted of felony convictions are eligible to register and vote immediately upon release from custody. Any citizen who will be 18 by November 8, 2022, and is not currently in jail or prison for a felony conviction is eligible to vote in this current election.
Early Voting is happening right now! Visit youcanvote.org/ev2022 to find your Early Voting polling site. You can vote anywhere in your county during this time. The last day to Early Vote is November 5th. You must be in line by 3 PM to make your vote count.
Election Day is November 8th, 2022. On Election Day, you must vote at your specific Election Day polling site. Visit our Voter Guide to find your Election Day polling site.
