TULSA, Okla. — Following Governor Stitt’s historic 2019 commutation of more than 450 sentences, questions arose about the voting rights of those whose sentences were commuted. Now, clarity has arrived with the passage of HB1629, ensuring restored voting rights for individuals whose sentences have been commuted or pardoned.
State Rep. Regina Goodwin, a key advocate for the bill, emphasized that HB1629 resolves ambiguities surrounding voting eligibility post-commutation. Previously, individuals like Ron Harding, who served 12 years for a non-violent drug offense, faced uncertainty about their voting rights upon release.
Harding, who cherished voting before his incarceration, expressed relief that the new law will unequivocally restore his ability to participate in elections. “This is about democracy,” remarked Rep. Goodwin, highlighting the significance of the legislation in safeguarding voting rights.
Tuesday will witness a ceremonial signing of HB1629 by the Governor, marking a milestone in clarifying and expanding voting rights for Oklahomans whose sentences have been commuted or otherwise modified.
The enactment of HB1629 underscores Oklahoma’s commitment to democratic principles by ensuring that individuals who have paid their debt to society through commutation or pardon regain their fundamental right to vote upon reintegration into the community.