Can a Felon Vote in Oklahoma? (Updated)

Founded on November 6, 1907, Oklahoma became the official 46^th state of America. Oklahoma was the result when Oklahoma and Indian Territory combined. The state has 3,923,561 citizens as of 2016.

The prison population in Oklahoma was 28,547 both male and female. As stated in NIC Oklahoma, the crime rate in the state is about 17% higher than the national average rate. Above 80% of these offenders convicted a property crime.

Democracy only fully takes effect once its people are given the integral right and role to vote. The people’s voice is the basis and foundation of governance in a nation which is only manifested during political elections.

Can Felons Vote in Oklahoma?

The state of Oklahoma is very particular in terms of felons’ voting rights. Offenders who are convicted for felony lose their rights of citizenship without further due.

A felon pleaded guilty under felony is not allowed to register as a voter. All felons behind bars are also restricted to participate in any elections.

Even while serving parole and probation, a felon does not have any voting rights. Only a sentence release will restore the offender’s civil rights.

A sentenced felon remains a disenfranchised individual by the court of justice. Completion of sentence period authorized in the judgement is important to be released.

How Can Felons Restore Voting Right in Oklahoma?

The forfeiture of civil rights can be removed from felony offenders. They can restore their rights to vote and participate in political elections through the following:

Complete his sentence as given by the court. The state of Oklahoma imparts a certificate of discharge to any offender who has fully served his or sentence.
Even after release, the state does not automatically restore the voting rights of the offender. The Democracy Restoration Act grants felons the chance to receive an unconditional pardon from the government of Oklahoma.
A felon must present valid documents to reach the qualifications. He or she must re-register as a legal citizen and voter of Oklahoma.

Oklahoma is one of the 20 states that only restore the voting rights of felons after terms of incarceration, parole and probation.