7 States Where Voters Could Change the Future of Criminal Justice

In the drama over the national presidential race, it’s easy to overlook state-level ballot initiatives. But in recent years, these questions posed directly to voters have led to some of the most significant changes in criminal justice policy on the state level—such as Californians deciding to significantly cut the state prison and jail population, or Floridians choosing to re-enfranchise voters with felony records. After a summer of nationwide protests over police violence, this year’s batch of proposals could serve as a litmus test for voters on racial justice issues.

In four states, legalizing marjuana is on the ballot, and multiple cities and counties will choose whether to increase oversight of police departments. In the lead-up to Election Day, here are other important state criminal justice proposals to watch:

CALIFORNIA

Proposition 17

California currently restores the right to vote when someone is released from prison and completes parole. , which has Gov. Gavin Newsom’s support, would allow people still on parole to vote and to . currently allow people. —