MTV, Comedy Central and VH1 announced they will be making a joint $250,000 donation to pay off fines, fees and restitution in an effort to increase voter access for young people in Florida.
The announcement is a response to a Florida law that requires payment of fines, fees and restitution before voting in the Sunshine State.
The 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in a 6-4 ruling last week upheld the law, which requires that former felons pay off outstanding court fees before having voting rights restored.
“This announcement is a continuation of our legacy in both increasing voter access for young people, and also our continuing commitment to racial justice,” said Erika Soto Lamb, vice president of social impact for ViacomCBS, told WLRN-FM in Miami on Friday.
“The fines can range anywhere from $200 to more than $1,000. We have estimated that at least 1,250 people will be able to vote this year because of the contribution that we’re making,” Soto Lamb added.
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