NEW: Voter IDs Available in Providence Tuesday
Monday, September 03, 2012
Voters who need a photo ID in order to comply with the state's new Voter ID law can get a free ID from the Secretary of State's office Tues., Sept. 4, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Marvin Gardens, 1688 Westminster St., Providence.
Type of IDs
Starting at this year's elections, voters are asked to show an ID when they vote at the polls. Election workers at the polls will accept a range of common photo IDs including:
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state ID card
RIPTA bus pass
college ID
employee ID. Voters who already have an acceptable photo ID do not need the special Voter ID.
For those needing an ID, voters must bring proof of identity such as a Social Security card, credit or debit card, utility bill or government-issued document. The ID, which includes a color photo of the voter and the voter's full name, will be created on the spot.
In addition to those locations, voters can also obtain a free ID at the Secretary of State's Elections Division, 148 West River St., Providence, weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
The primary on Sept. 11 will be the next test of Voter ID.
Voter ID will be phased in over two election cycles. In 2012 and 2013, voters can also use a variety of non-photo IDs including a Social Security card, bank statement or any government-issued document. Beginning in 2014, only photo ID will be accepted.
All Can Vote
Most importantly, no eligible voter will be denied the right to vote. Voters who do not bring an acceptable ID to the polls can vote using a standard Provisional Ballot. If the signature they give at their polling place matches the signature on their voter registration, their ballot will be counted.
Through the presidential primary and two municipal special elections, no problems at the polls have been reported to the Secretary of State's office. Fewer than 30 Voter ID-related provisional ballots have been cast and just one was rejected.
For additional information visit sos.ri.gov.
