Governor Abigail Spanberger announced the restoration of voting and civil rights for 66,085 Virginians who were previously incarcerated. This move is part of her administration's efforts to reform the rights restoration process in Virginia.
The restorations have taken place since Spanberger's term began in January 2026.
Virginia, along with two other states, requires gubernatorial approval for restoring rights to citizens with felony convictions.
Restoration rights include voting, jury service, running for office, and becoming a notary public.
Previous Governor Glenn Youngkin's administration had fewer than 10,000 restorations and implemented a case-by-case review process.
Spanberger reinstated a more streamlined application process and removed the requirement for applicants to pay all fines, fees, and restitution.
The restoration announcement comes before early voting for the midterm elections starting September 18, which includes a referendum proposing automatic restoration of voting rights upon release from incarceration.
Spanberger emphasized the importance of voting rights for all citizens and encouraged participation in the upcoming elections, highlighting the recent changes as a move towards empowering Virginians.
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