OCTOBER 18, 2007

Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land today reminded eligible residents there is still time to request an absentee voter ballot for the Nov. 6 general election.

"Even if you're not able to be at the polls in person on Nov. 6, you still have an opportunity to participate," said Land, the state's chief elections officer. "Casting an absentee ballot is one way to ensure your voice is heard."

Registered voters may ask to have an absentee ballot mailed to their home. They have until 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 3 to submit a written request to their city or township clerk, including the reason they qualify. Voters must complete the ballot and return it to the clerk's office by 8 p.m. on Election Day.

Voters can obtain an absentee ballot application in person at their local clerk's office. Residents may also visit their city or township clerk's office through 4 p.m. Monday, Nov. 5 to pick up an absentee ballot. Those who request a ballot in person on Nov. 5 must vote the ballot while they are in the clerk's office.

Registered voters can obtain absentee ballots if they are:

• Age 60 or older
• Unable to attend the polls without the assistance of another person
• Expecting to be out of town on Election Day
• In jail awaiting arraignment or trial
• Unable to attend the polls due to religious reasons
• Appointed to work as an election inspector in a precinct outside of their precinct of residence

Voters who registered by mail or via a voter registration drive and have never voted in Michigan are not eligible to vote by absentee ballot in their first election. They must vote in person at their precinct. This restriction does not apply to voters who are overseas, disabled or 60 or older.

Voters are also reminded that starting with the Nov. 6 election, they will be asked to present photo identification if they vote in person. Photo ID includes a Michigan driver's license, state-issued personal ID card, U.S. passport or military ID with photo, or other acceptable form of ID. Absentee voters do not need to produce photo ID.

Voters who do not have photo ID with them at the polls can sign an affidavit attesting to that fact, and they will then receive a ballot that will be counted with all others.

Residents with questions regarding absentee voting or voter ID may visit the Michigan Voter Information Center at www.Michigan.gov/vote, or contact their local clerks.