In recent years, California has wisely chosen to invest in formerly incarcerated individuals through education, job training, counseling, and other supportive services. Research and experience tell us this is key to individuals reoffending at lower rates and becoming productive members of their community. Research also shows us that civic participation is another key element of community engagement – it’s one reason why my office works to educate those with criminal convictions about their rights.

Restoring the vote isn’t only the smart thing to do — it’s the right thing to do. The inequities in our criminal justice system are stark: three out of four men leaving California prisons are African American, Latino, or Asian American.

If we’re serious about dismantling racism and creating a truly inclusive democracy, then we must take this important step to grant formerly incarcerated Californians the right to vote.