You've heard the rumors. Maybe you've even told someone yourself: "If you've got a felony, you're done with voting." It sounds like one of those hard truths of the American legal system. But in Michigan? It’s basically a myth.
If you’re wondering can felons vote in federal elections Michigan, the answer is a resounding yes. Honestly, Michigan is one of the most progressive states in the country when it comes to "returning citizens" and the ballot box. You don't lose your right to vote forever. You don't even lose it while you’re on parole.
The confusion usually stems from how other states handle things. In places like Kentucky or Mississippi, the process is a nightmare involving petitions or lifetime bans for certain crimes. Michigan doesn't play that way. Here, the law is refreshingly simple, though there are a few "gotchas" regarding where you are physically sitting on Election Day.
The Reality of Voting Rights for Returning Citizens
Let’s get the big one out of the way. If you have a past felony conviction—no matter how serious—you can vote in Michigan. This applies to local, state, and yes, federal elections like the race for President or Congress.
There is exactly one group of people with criminal records who cannot vote in Michigan: people who are currently serving a sentence in jail or prison.
According to Michigan Compiled Law (MCL) Section 168.758b, you are only disqualified while you are "confined." The second you step out of those doors, your rights are effectively back. You don’t need a pardon. You don’t need a judge to sign a special order. You just need to be a U.S. citizen, 18 years old, and a resident of your Michigan city for at least 30 days.
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What About Parole and Probation?
This is where people trip up. In many states, you have to finish every single second of "supervision" before you can touch a ballot. Not here.
In Michigan, if you are on parole, you can vote.
If you are on probation, you can vote.
If you are wearing a tether, you can still vote.
Basically, if you aren't currently behind bars for a conviction, you're good. It’s a common misconception that being "in the system" equals being "disenfranchised." Even the Michigan Secretary of State, Jocelyn Benson, has been vocal about this—the state actually wants you to register. They’ve even pushed for laws (like Senate Bill 603) to ensure prisoners getting ready for release receive paperwork explaining exactly how to get back on the voter rolls.
Jail vs. Prison: The Nuance Matters
Not everyone in a cell is actually "sentenced." This is a huge distinction for the 2026 election cycle.
If you are in a county jail awaiting trial—meaning you haven't been convicted of the current charge yet—you are still eligible to vote. You can request an absentee ballot and have it mailed to the jail. Since you’re technically not serving a sentence for a conviction, the law doesn't strip your rights.
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However, if you are in jail because you were already convicted and sentenced for a misdemeanor or a felony, then you have to wait until you're out.
How to Get Back on the Rolls
Wait, does it happen automatically? Sorta.
While your right is restored automatically, your registration might not be. If you were registered before you went away, your registration might have been cancelled or moved to an "inactive" status if you were gone a long time.
- Check your status. Visit the Michigan Voter Information Center (MVIC) online. It takes two seconds to see if you're still in the system.
- Re-register if needed. You can do this online if you have a valid Michigan ID or driver's license.
- The "14-day" rule. If it's more than two weeks before the election, you can register by mail or online. If it's within 14 days of the election—or even on Election Day itself—you have to go to your local clerk's office in person with proof of residency.
A paycheck stub, a utility bill, or even a government document with your name and address works for proof of residency. Don't let a lack of a "permanent" home stop you either. People experiencing homelessness can register using a street corner or a shelter address as their residence.
The Federal Election Myth
Some people think federal elections have different rules than state ones. They don't. The U.S. Constitution mostly lets states decide who is a "qualified elector." Because Michigan says you’re qualified once you’re out of prison, you are qualified for the big federal tickets too.
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You’ll see the same ballot as everyone else in your precinct. There isn't a "felon-only" ballot or any special mark on your registration that poll workers see. Your vote is just as private and just as valid as anyone else’s.
Common Misconceptions That Stop People
I've talked to people who were terrified that if they tried to register, they’d get arrested for "voter fraud." This happened in Florida with some folks who were told they could vote but actually couldn't.
That doesn't happen in Michigan because the rules aren't tied to "legal financial obligations." In some states, if you owe $5.00 in court fees, you can't vote. In Michigan, your right to vote has nothing to do with whether you've paid your restitution or fines. While you should definitely pay those to keep your life on track, the state won't block your ballot over it.
Actionable Steps for 2026
If you or someone you know is a returning citizen, don't wait for a "permission slip" that isn't coming.
- Verify your ID: If your state ID expired while you were inside, getting a new one is the first step. It makes registration way easier.
- Locate your Clerk: Your city or township clerk is the boss of your local elections. Find their office address now.
- Ignore the noise: You might see political ads or social media posts saying felons can't vote. They are usually talking about other states or just spreading bad info.
- Use the 30-day window: Ensure you’ve lived in your current Michigan city for at least 30 days before the election to meet the residency requirement.
The bottom line is that your voice hasn't been silenced. If you're walking the streets of Detroit, Grand Rapids, or even a tiny village in the UP, and you aren't currently serving time, you're a voter. Period.