May 23rd, 2015 by WCBC Radio
Governor Larry Hogan has vetoed six bills approved by lawmakers this year. The governor vetoed two identical bills (SB 340/HB 980) that would have restored voting rights to felons once they complete their prison sentence, but while they remain on parole. In veto messages ot Senate President Mike Miller and House Speaker Mike Busch, Hogan said that those who are convicted of felonies face certain "collateral consequences" like the loss of voting rights, or the right to own firearms or serve on juries. Hogan notes that in 2002 and 2007, the legislature passed bills to restore voting rights for felons, including the terms of parole and probation. Each bill passed the House of Delegates this year with 82 votes, three votes short of a three-fifths majority to override a veto. The Senate did pass both bills with a veto proof majority.
.jpg)
