Voters Can Get New Voter IDs in Coventry Feb. 28

The campaign to implement the state's new Voter ID law will come to Coventry when the Secretary of State's office visits this Tuesday.

The Secretary of State's office will provide free IDs to registered voters who do not already have an acceptable photo ID including a R.I. driver's license, U.S. passport, college ID, a U.S. military ID, government-issued medical card or a state- or federal-issued ID like a RIPTA bus pass.

The special Voter IDs will be available at Feb. 28 from 1-3 p.m. Upcoming stops include West Greenwich Town Hall Feb. 29, from 10 a.m. to noon and the West Warwick Senior Center March 14 from 10 a.m. to noon. The complete schedule of stops is posted on the Secretary of State's website at sos.ri.gov.

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.

"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

Under the new law, voters will now be asked to show a current and valid ID when they vote at their polling place. The first test of the new law will be the state's April 24 presidential primary.

"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. In 2012 and 2013, voters can use a variety of non-photo IDs including a RIte Care or social security card if they do not have an acceptable photo ID. Beginning in 2014, photo IDs like a R.I. driver's license, college ID or U.S. passport 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.