In a pivotal meeting on January 14, 2025, the Virginia General Assembly discussed Senate Joint Resolution 248, a constitutional amendment aimed at restoring voting rights to individuals with felony convictions. This amendment asserts that every person meeting the qualifications set forth in the Virginia Constitution has the fundamental right to vote, which cannot be abridged by law. Notably, it stipulates that individuals regain their voting rights automatically upon release from incarceration, without needing further action.

Senator Locke, a key proponent of the amendment, emphasized the historical context of felony disenfranchisement in Virginia, linking it to Jim Crow laws designed to suppress Black voters. He argued that the current system perpetuates racial inequities, with one in seven Black Virginians unable to vote due to felony convictions. Locke called for a reevaluation of the state's voting rights policies, framing the right to vote as essential to democracy and citizenship.

The meeting featured strong support from various advocacy groups, including the ACLU of Virginia and the Virginia Catholic Conference, who echoed the sentiment that voting is a fundamental right. Many speakers shared personal stories highlighting the challenges faced by individuals seeking to restore their voting rights, often encountering bureaucratic hurdles and delays.

The discussion also addressed the broader implications of disenfranchisement, with advocates arguing that restoring voting rights is crucial for fostering civic engagement and representation in the democratic process. The resolution aims to eliminate the arbitrary nature of rights restoration, ensuring that all citizens who have completed their sentences can participate fully in the electoral process.

As the committee prepares to vote on SJ 248, the outcome could significantly impact the voting landscape in Virginia, potentially rectifying historical injustices and promoting a more inclusive democracy. The push for this amendment reflects a growing recognition of voting as a basic human right, essential for all citizens, regardless of their past.