Voter ID outreach planned

Published 8:13 pm Saturday, August 16, 2014

The Suffolk Voter Registrar’s office is working to make sure Suffolk voters can provide valid photo identification at the polls this November to comply with new state requirements.

A camera and electronic signature pad are set up at the voter registrar’s office, 440 Market St., for people who do not already have a photo ID to come get one.

In addition, a mobile outreach will be set up at Lake Prince Woods, 100 Anna Goode Way, this Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

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“This is free to anyone that needs a photo ID to vote at their polling place,” said Susan Saunders, the voter registrar, who also noted more events are in the works. “I think it is an absolutely wonderful thing for the citizens.”

The new requirement will be in effect for the Nov. 4 elections, which include races for U.S. Senate and House of Representatives as well as City Council and School Board.

Other acceptable photo identifications include a valid Virginia driver’s license, DMV-issued voter ID card, U.S. passport, other government-issued photo ID, employee photo identification card, or a student photo ID from a Virginia college or university.

The document must be current or have expired within the last 12 months, Saunders said.

The last day to register to vote is Oct. 14, but registered voters can get their new voter photo IDs at any point up until Election Day, Saunders said. Those who come to the voter registrar office within 30 days of the election will be issued a temporary card so that they can vote on Election Day, then will receive their permanent one in the mail.

However, Saunders encouraged people to get it done as soon as possible and avoid the rush.

For more information, visit www.sbe.virginia.gov or call 514-7750.