by ArtemusBlank

In a key ballot initiative, Florida will restore voting rights to citizens convicted of certain felonies after they have served their sentences, including prison terms, parole and probationary periods, AP has projected.

Voting rights will not be restored to those convicted of murder or felony sexual offenses.

Approximately 1.5 million people are currently barred from voting in the state because of a past felony conviction — a figure representing about 10 percent of Florida's adult population.

Felons who have served their sentences in Florida have in recent years been forced to appeal to the governor and his Cabinet for the restoration of their voting rights.

While more than 150,000 Floridians had their voting rights restored during Democrat Charlie Crist's four years in office, Gov. Rick Scott's ascension to the office seven years ago put a halt to that. Since 2011, Scott has restored voting rights to just over 3,000 people.

Well this could really change things in Florida