Florida Guv on Felons and Forgiveness

ABC News’ Matthew Zavala Reports: Florida Republican Governor Charlie Crist is in a forgiving mood this week and he has persuaded the Florida Board of Executive Clemency to restore voting rights to most ex-felons.

Crist put this latest development into the context of Holy Week saying, "A fundamental belief of both Passover and Easter is that the debt for a person’s wrongs can be paid in full."

The new rule, which could prove pivotal in the 2008, gives voting rights back to individuals who have committed less serious crimes. They now have the right to serve on a jury, apply for an occupational license, and to hold public office.

Crist also said, "giving a person a meaningful way to re-enter society, make a living and participate in our democracy will encourage good behavior and will help thousands of Floridians restore their dignity."

In 2000, some voters who were not felons were denied the right to vote after being mistaken for felons.