New Tricks for an Old Dog: Deterring the Vote Through Confusion in Felon Disenfranchisement

Felon disenfranchisement laws do not just disenfranchise. They also confuse. By imposing heavy penalties for failing to correctly navigate complex provisions, these statutes confuse eligible voters and discourage them from exercising their right to vote. In this way, felon disenfranchisement laws resemble modern voter suppression laws: they deter eligible voters from voting.

Modest reforms can and should be implemented to affirmatively inform formerly incarcerated individuals of their restored voting rights.