Statement of

U.S. Rep. Kendrick B. Meek (D-FL)

On the Restoration Process of Ex-Felons’ Rights in Florida

 

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Kendrick B. Meek issued the following statement after Governor Charlie Crist (R-FL) and the Board of Executive Clemency voted today to begin the restoration process of ex-felons’ rights in Florida:

"Florida’s image to the rest of the country and the world should be one of tourism, agriculture, and commerce; not of a state that disenfranchises individuals who have paid their debt to society.

"This decision is a good first step in the restoration process of ex-felons' rights in Florida and I commend Governor Crist for his efforts. This Jim Crow-era ban has no place in our society, and yet the struggle to restore all ex-felons’ voting and civil rights continues. The real measure of this initiative’s success depends upon the good will of future Florida governors to uphold this decision.

As a state legislator in Florida, and as a U.S. Congressman, Rep. Meek has hosted numerous redemption workshops to assist law-abiding citizens in regaining their rights.

Congressman Kendrick B. Meek (D-FL) represents the 17th Congressional District which includes parts of Miami-Dade and Broward Counties. He serves on the House Armed Services Committee and the House Ways and Means Committee.

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