Polsky-backed bill would create public database to help Floridians confirm eligibility for rights restoration

Senator Polsky introduced legislation directing the Florida Commission on Offender Review to develop and maintain an online, publicly accessible database containing information to help former felons determine whether they have completed requirements to restore voting rights. The database must be available by July 1, 2029, and updated monthly.

Polsky said Florida residents currently must contact multiple offices to determine restoration status, creating confusion and wasted staff time; the measure aims to centralize information and publish clear instructions for people convicted of felonies other than murder or specified sexual offenses. Supporters representing rights-restoration groups waived in favor.

Committee members asked about data sharing between agencies; Polsky said staff would follow up on interagency access and look at FDLE and other records to determine feasibility. The committee voted to report the bill favorably.

The bill was presented as a transparency and customer-service reform to make restoration procedures easier to navigate.