Lincoln, Neb. — The Nebraska Supreme Court ruled Wednesday that elections officials must let Nebraskans with past felony convictions vote.
The decision evolved from a lawsuit challenging Nebraska Secretary of State Robert Evnen’s directive ordering county elections officials to stop registering voters with felony records following the Legislature’s passage of a law eliminating a two-year waiting period for voters with a felony conviction, asserting the law is unconstitutional. The order was based on an opinion of State Attorney General Mike Hilgers. As a result, Nebraskans with felony convictions who have completed all terms of their sentence will be able to register to vote immediately so long as they are otherwise eligible.
Attorneys with the American Civil Liberties Union, ACLU of Nebraska, and Faegre Drinker litigated the case on behalf of individual Nebraskans seeking access to the ballot and Civic Nebraska, a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization.
Eligible Nebraskans with past felony convictions who have not yet registered must do so ahead of quickly approaching deadlines. Online registration is available through Oct. 18. The last day to register in person is Oct. 25.
Neb. Attorney General Mike Hilgers says he’s appreciative of Wednesday’s Supreme Court consideration of this important issue and grateful that the Court provided clarity before the election.
