Politics & Government

Voter ID Cards Available At Mohr Tomorrow

Rhode Island Secretary of State Ralph Mollis announced that he had scheduled a voter ID sign-up at Mohr Library from 1 to 3 p.m. on Mar. 16.

The campaign to implement the state's new Voter ID law will make its first stop in Johnston tomorrow when the Secretary of State’s office sets up shop at the , 1 Memorial Ave., from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Beginning with the April 24 presidential primary, voters will be asked to show a current and valid ID when they vote at the polls.

"The perception that identity theft could occur at the polls weakens the public's faith in the integrity of our elections. Voting should be at least as secure as everyday tasks like renting a car or getting a library card that routinely require ID," said Secretary of State A. Ralph Mollis in a statement.

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Free IDs will be available to registered voters who do not already have an acceptable photo ID, including a Rhode Island driver's license, U.S. passport, college ID, U.S. military ID, government-issued medical card or state- or federal-issued ID, like a RIPTA bus pass.

In order to obtain a Voter ID, registered 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 as it appears in the state's voter registration database, will be created on the spot.

Find out what's happening in Johnstonwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

"Photo ID ensures that poll workers can match a face to the name that voters give them when they obtain their ballots at the polls. The simple act of asking for ID protects the rights of every voter," said Mollis.

Mollis will be equipped with mobile Voter ID equipment to produce the ID cards on the spot.

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 RIte Care or social security card. Beginning in 2014, photo ID will be required.

Eligible voters who do not bring an acceptable ID to the polls will not be turned away. They 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.

"No one will be denied the opportunity to vote," said Mollis. Mail ballots do not require ID.

The Secretary of State's office prepares the ballots for all federal, state and municipal elections held in Rhode Island. In addition, the office maintains the statewide voter registration list and creates guides to running for office and voting.

More information about Voter ID including a list of dates and locations where voters can obtain one are posted at http://sos.ri.gov/elections/voterid/card/.


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