VA House panel rejects felons' rights bill

Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell's plea for legislation to automatically restore the civil rights of nonviolent felons has been rejected by fellow Republicans in the House of Delegates.

A GOP-dominated House subcommittee killed the legislation Monday, less than a week after McDonnell surprised lawmakers by urging them to support the legislation. Democrats have championed automatic restoration of rights for years.

Del. Charnielle Herring of Alexandria, chairwoman of the state Democratic Party and one of the sponsors of the legislation, said she was disappointed that Republicans rejected what she says has become a nonpartisan proposal.