The Democratic governor said only four other states prohibit felons from voting after completing their sentences.

"We're here today to talk about justice," Vilsack said. "When you've paid your debt to society, you need to be reconnected to society."

Vilsack said about 600 felons last year had voting rights restored, but he said it's a painstaking and time-consuming process that distracts the state's parole board and investigators.

Vilsack said he will sign the measure on July 4 with the symbolism of Independence Day.

Other states that don't automatically restore voting rights are Alabama, Florida, Kentucky and Virginia.

Vilsack emphasized that his move will not restore the right to carry a gun or ease any financial obligations to victims.

The governor made the announcement at a news conference, surrounded by dozens of civil rights activists.

Under the executive order, convicted felons who complete their sentences would see their voting rights automatically restored. Currently, they can apply for the right to vote, but it must be approved by the parole board and governor in a very lengthy process.

As many as 500 to 600 people a month could be affected by the order, Vilsack said.

The ban on voting hits minority groups hard, the governor said.

"It has disproportionately affected minority individuals," the governor said. "It's just not fair. Iowa has been a leader in civil rights."

The governor said a bipartisan panel of legislators wrote a letter to him asking him for an executive order after they determined that lawmakers don't have the constitutional power to take the action.

Rep. Wayne Ford, D-Des Moines, one of those lawmakers, was pleased with the order.

"For many years, Iowa was the first in the country in terms of black incarceration" rates, Ford said.

© 2005 Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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