The discussions began on Friday, and lawmakers have yet to publicly define the threshold for what types of crimes committed by the state's approximately 250,000 felons would qualify for the new law. 

Georgia is one of 22 states that denies felons the ability to vote even after they've been released from prison, requiring them to also complete parole, probation and pay fines and fees.

State Sen. Randy Robertson, the chairman of a committee studying the issue, said it's important for the Senate to evaluate whether felons should be able to vote. -AJC

"I would hope I'm not wasting my time today on something that's fruitless," said Robertson, a Republican from Cataula and a former sheriff's deputy, after the committee's meeting at Columbus State University. "Victims are going to have their voices heard, too. … Just starting the conversation is a big step forward."

Advocating for felon voting rights are criminal justice groups and several senators, who agree that those convicted of drug possession should be able to vote once they've served their time in prison. Other nonviolent yet more serious offenses such as drug distribution, shoplifting and burglary are up for debate.