ACLU to assist voters who have problems at polls

Virginia voters who are denied access or have other problems at the polls this Election Day are encouraged to call or write the ACLU of Virginia for help.

ACLU staff will take calls at 804-644-8080 and respond to emails sent to [email protected] throughout Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 8.

“The ACLU of Virginia continues to be concerned about free and fair access to the polls as a result of the mandate that went into effect in 2013 requiring voters to bring photo identification in order to exercise their right,” said ACLU of Virginia Executive Director Claire Guthrie Gastañaga. “We stand ready to protect and defend anyone whose right to vote is denied.”

Voters should be prepared to present an approved, valid form of photo ID to cast a vote.

Acceptable photo IDs include:

• Virginia Driver’s License or other Virginia DMV Photo ID (not expired more than 12 months),
• U.S. Passport (not expired more than 12 months),
• Other government-issued photo ID (must be issued by U.S. government, the Commonwealth of Virginia, or a political subdivision of the commonwealth),
• Valid student photo ID issued by a high school, college or university in Virginia,
• Employee photo ID, and
• Free Voter Photo ID Card (available at your local general registrar’s office, through Election Day).

For more information and a complete list of acceptable IDs, visit http://elections.virginia.gov/index.php/registration/photo-ids-required-to-vote/.

The ACLU of Virginia can help voters calling the hotline or emailing with many common problems, including understanding what to do if they:

• Have their right to vote challenged,
• Are told they cannot vote because they are wearing political-related attire,
• Cannot physically access the polling precinct,
• Make a mistake on the ballot, or
• Are not listed on the registration roll.

Voters who fail to show an approved, valid photo ID may cast a provisional ballot, but must then provide proof of photo ID to their general registrar no later than noon on Monday, Nov. 14, to complete their vote.  Voters without an approved photo ID may obtain a free, temporary photo ID printed instantly from their general registrar, even on Election Day.