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A proposal from Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell to restore civil rights to nonviolent felons has been rejected by fellow Republicans in the House of Delegates.
Less than a week after McDonnell surprised lawmakers by urging them to support restoring rights such as running for public office and serving on a jury to some categories of ex-convicts, a GOP-dominated House subcommittee has killed the legislation.
The move came in spite of support from Virginia's top law enforcement officer, Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli, who testified in support. Cuccinelli, who is running for governor in this year's election, advocated putting a specific list of nonviolent felonies eligible for the restoration in the state's code.
In addition to testifying in favor of the legislation, Cuccinelli issued two official opinions aimed at strengthening the power of the governor's office to restore civil rights to felons who have served their full sentences; opinions he might make use of, if he's elected to the office.
House Democrats, including Del. Charnielle Herring of Alexandria, were disappointed at the proposal's rejection.
Book News: Newly Found Pearl Buck Novel To Be Published This Fall
Also: shameless book blurbs; new plays from Ayad Ahktar; and a first edition of Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone draws a record price at auction.Nutrition Group Says Chocolate Milk Is OK, No Need For Aspartame
The nation's largest group of nutritionists is urging the FDA to reject the dairy industry's petition to change the definition of milk. The petition aims to allow aspartame or other alternatives to be used to sweeten milk in an effort to boost consumption in schools.Anthony Weiner Jumps Into Race To Be NYC Mayor
The former congressman's career appeared to be over when he resigned in 2011 because of an extramarital sexting scandal and his lies about it. Now, he tells voters, "I've made some big mistakes. ... I hope I get a second chance to work for you." The Democratic primary is set for Sept. 10.Microsoft Unveils Its new Xbox One
Microsoft has designs on your living room. The software giant's new game console — Xbox One — uses speech-recognition technology and physical commands. Not just to control games, but also your TV, Skype and recorded video. Microsoft demonstrated the new device Tuesday.Leave a Comment
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