Voting is how adults choose our leaders in a democracy. But not everyone can vote. Here are the rules for voting in Arkansas.
You can vote if you:
- Are a US citizen
- Live in Arkansas
- Are at least 18 years old on Election Day
- Have not been found mentally unable to vote by a court
- Do not have a felony that hasn’t been pardoned or completed
What about people who have been in jail?
If you have a felony (a serious crime), you cannot vote in Arkansas while serving your sentence. But you can get your voting rights back after you:
- Complete your prison time
- Finish probation and parole
- Pay all fines, fees, and restitution
After doing all of these things, you must take paperwork to your County Clerk. This paperwork must show you have finished your sentence. Then you can register to vote again.
If you are waiting for trial or have a misdemeanor (a less serious crime), you can still vote.
Voting is an important right. Check if you can vote before the next election!