Supreme Court Declines Virginia's Felon Voting Ban Case

The U.S. Supreme Court has declined to review Virginia's attempt to dismiss a lawsuit challenging an 1869 state constitutional provision that bans convicted felons from voting. The lawsuit, led by two disenfranchised voters and backed by the ACLU, claims this provision violates the Virginia Readmission Act of 1870.

The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday refused to consider Virginia's attempt to overturn a lawsuit challenging the state's 1869 constitutional rule that imposes a lifelong voting ban on convicted felons. This is among the strictest voting restrictions nationwide.

Attorney General Jason Miyares's appeal was denied, allowing a lower court's decision for the case to proceed. The lawsuit, spearheaded by two Virginians with felony records and supported by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), argues that this law violates the Virginia Readmission Act of 1870.

This case brings to light ongoing debates on voting rights, as Virginia stands as one of just three states enforcing such stringent measures on felons. The case now awaits developments, potentially impacting civil rights protections for affected individuals.

(With inputs from agencies.)