No Photo ID? Get Voter ID Tuesday

The campaign to implement Rhode Island’s new Voter ID law starts at the Barrington Senior Center on Tuesday, March 13, from 1 to 3 pm.

The Secretary of State’s Office will set up shop in the Senior Center in the lower level of the library.

Free IDs will be given out to registered voters who do not have an acceptable photo ID, including a R.I. 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, according to a press release.

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.

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.

"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.

Voter ID will be phased in over two election cycles, according to the Secretary of State’s Office. 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, a 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.

For more information, visit sos.ri.gov.