As election day 2024 inches closer, a hot topic has been on the minds of people all over the nation. In some states, including the Empire State, the conversations can make or break an election, as the American people are pretty much evenly divided on so many topics.

According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, it is common practice in the United States to make felons ineligible to vote, often those bans from voting for people who have been convicted of felonies is permanent. The United States Department of Justice publishes a guide for people that advises them if they have the right to vote after being convicted of a felony crime and what, if anything, can be done after the conviction. The American Civil Liberties Union even publishes a map listing which states offers what rights to citizens with felony convictions.

Many people ask if New York residents with felony convictions can vote, and the answer is a very simple yes.

READ MORE: Here’s How To Register To Vote In New York State

According to the New York State Board of Elections, people with felony convictions can vote as long as they are not in prison on election day.

In fact, when a felon is released from prison, correctional officials should offer the citizen the opportunity to register to vote when released and assist with filling out the voter registration forms.

Felons, like any other American Citizen in New York, can vote in any election as long as they're registered.

READ MORE: New York Has Several Big Elections This Year That Need Your Vote

It doesn't matter if you're on parole, probation, or supervised release; you can still vote. Even if you are awaiting trial for a felony, you can still cast your vote if you're not in prison at the time of the election. This rule only applies to prison for felons, if you are in jail you can still register to vote and cast your vote.

This is good news for some as New York has some famous people who have dealt with legal issues over the years.

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Unfortunately, the list is long and distinguished.

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