John,
In another victory for voting rights advocates nationwide, Colorado has passed legislation to expand ballot access for incarcerated residents.
Senate Bill 24-072 will require polling stations at every county jail and detention facility, and for sheriffs to facilitate one day of in-person voting at every facility in the state. This critical legislation will advance democracy, racial equity, and the reintegration of justice-involved individuals into their communities.
This legislation makes Colorado the first state to require all county jails to set up in-person voting stations for incarcerated voters. Jurisdictions in Illinois, Massachusetts, Michigan, Nevada, and Washington D.C. authorize jail-based voting. However, codifying the practice into Colorado law establishes a new precedent, a first for the nation.
As a national partner to the Colorado Criminal Justice Coalition, The Sentencing Project worked closely with state partners to support the passage of this legislation by organizing coalition calls, providing strategic communications support, and shining a spotlight on the racist history and harmful impact of denying the vote to incarcerated residents.
This legislation reflects a broader recognition of the importance of second chances and the need to address systemic barriers to full participation in civic life. By ensuring voting access to people who are incarcerated through the requirement of in-person voting and substantial allocation of resources, Colorado has taken a bold stand for democracy and equality.
However, the work continues in Colorado - and nationwide - until we have unlocked the vote for all justice-impacted citizens.
Thank you, as always, for your support. These victories would not be possible without you.
