Which group is explicitly excluded from voting in local elections?

The correct answer pertains to specific legal and eligibility criteria regarding voting rights. In many jurisdictions, individuals who are currently serving a felony conviction, especially those with certain mental health issues, may be explicitly excluded from voting. This is linked to laws that restrict civic engagement for those who have committed serious crimes, which varies by location but is a common policy in many areas.

The other options do not reflect widely accepted voting exclusions. For instance, residents who pay local taxes are typically encouraged to participate in local elections as their interests are directly affected by those in office. Citizenship, rather than education level, is the key criterion for voting rights; thus, there is no provision excluding citizens without a degree. Additionally, age does not disqualify individuals from voting unless they are below the minimum voting age, which is generally set at 18 years. Consequently, older individuals, such as those aged 55 or older, are fully eligible to vote.