State of Vermont
Agency of Human Services
Department of Corrections

Title:

Inmate Voting

Page 1 of 1

Chapter:

Facilities - General

# 324.01

Supersedes: #324.01 dated
3/9/1998

Attachments, Forms & Companion Documents:
All attachments, forms, and companion documents associated with this directive are available on the Department’s website

Local Procedure(s) Required: Yes, for facilities.
Applicability: All staff (including volunteers and contractors)
Security Level: "B"- Anyone may have access to this document.
Approved:
______ SIGNED
__5/16/17_
6/1/17
Lisa M. Menard, Commissioner
Date Signed
Date Effective
PURPOSE
The purpose of this administrative directive is to establish the Vermont Department of Corrections’
(DOC) policy regarding inmates’ right to vote while incarcerated. Additionally, this policy ensures that
the voting rights of Vermont inmates are protected.
PHILOSOPHY
It is the philosophy of the DOC to ensure that inmates are made aware of their right to vote while
incarcerated, and to encourage inmates to vote.
AUTHORITY
28 V.S.A. § 807; and 17 V.S.A. § § 2121, 2122.
REFERENCE
The Civil Rights Act of 1964.
POLICY
Pursuant to Vermont state law, individuals convicted of a crime shall retain their right to vote by
absentee ballot in a primary or general election during the term of their confinement, provided the
individual meets all other voting requirements. The DOC shall ensure that each correctional facility
provides basic information and assistance to inmates qualified to vote. The Volunteer Services
Coordinator shall develop any necessary procedures to ensure the right to vote may be carried out.

Page 1 of 1