RICHMOND, VA – Governor Abigail Spanberger announced today that her administration has restored voting rights for 66,085 Virginians who were formerly incarcerated since she took office in January. This action reestablishes a streamlined process for rights restoration after previous changes.
Virginia is one of only three states where the constitution permanently disenfranchises citizens with past felony convictions, leaving the restoration of these rights solely to the Governor's discretion. The civil rights reinstated by Governor Spanberger include the ability to vote, serve on a jury, run for public office, and become a notary public. The Spanberger Administration reestablished processes to review applications and proactively identify eligible Virginians, contrasting with the previous administration's approach.
Governor Spanberger emphasized the significance of these actions, saying, "The right to vote is foundational to who we are as Americans. I’m proud that — after contending with my predecessor's efforts to deny Virginians their fundamental rights — we have restored the rights of more than 66,000 Virginians who have served their time. These Virginians deserve the right to use their vote, make their voices heard, and be recognized as contributing citizens to our Commonwealth and country."
Looking ahead, Virginians will vote this fall on a constitutional amendment that would automatically restore voting rights to individuals with felony convictions upon their release from incarceration. Early voting for this referendum begins on September 18, 2026, with Election Day set for November 3, 2026. Governor Spanberger urged support for the amendment, stating, "This fall, voters can cast their ballots for Virginia to no longer strip so many of our neighbors of their fundamental rights — a shameful relic of our Jim Crow past. I hope Virginians will join me in voting yes."
Secretary of the Commonwealth Candi Mundon King noted the team's dedication, saying, "Over the past six months, our work has been guided by Governor Spanberger’s deep belief that Virginians who served their time deserve their civil rights." Secretary of Administration Traci J. Deshazor, Senator Mamie Locke, and Delegate Cia Price also voiced their support for these efforts and the upcoming referendum. The Secretary of the Commonwealth’s Office continues to proactively identify eligible Virginians and accept applications through a streamlined online system.