Started in 2012, National Voter Registration Day is held the 4th Tuesday of September and seeks to create broad awareness of voter registration opportunities to reach tens of thousands of voters who may not register otherwise.
Why we need it?
Every state is different…. While presidential elections are held nationwide every 4 years, each state gets to set their rules for state and local elections, including their own deadlines and rules for voter registration. Some states like North Dakota have no registration requirement, others like Minnesota allow for Election Day registration, and most states, like Nebraska, set a registration deadline in advance of the general election.
Special rules for specific populations… It is important to understand that not every voter has the same experience, therefore rules for voter registration can impact individuals differently. For example, Nebraskans that move frequently, like military personnel or renters, have to remember to re-register with every move so their voter registration is up-to-date. Here are some more special registration rules:
- Students: Nebraska students have the right to register at their campus address or stay registered at their parent’s address. So UNL student from Scottsbluff can stay registered in SB at their parent’s address or re-register in Lincoln at the campus dorm or apartment.
- Returning citizens: It’s a common misconception that those convicted of a felony lose their right to vote forever. In Nebraska, we allow individuals who have successfully completed their sentence to re-register two years after they are “off paper”.
- Homeless: Individuals currently without a permanent home may register to vote using the address of their county’s election commissioner, but will need to sign an additional affidavit.
If you are an impacted individual or work with impacted individuals, contact Civic Nebraska for assistance at (402) 904-5191 or elections@civicnebraska.org
I want to celebrate National Voter Registration Day…. So you’re ready to celebrate this awesome new holiday? Well you can do so in 3 easy steps!
Step 1: Check your status. Use the Secretary of State’s website to check your voter registration status. If it’s up to date, then skip ahead to Step 3! If you’re not registered or you need to update it, go to Step 2!
Step 2: Choose your method. There are 4 ways to register or update your registration in Nebraska. Pick the method that best suits your lifestyle and availability.
- In person – Have time to stop by your county election office? Swing on in and register to vote at the counter.
- By-mail – Print off a voter registration form and mail it to your county election office. Make sure you include your full name, address, date of birth, Nebraska license number or last four digits of your social security number, and your autograph!
- Online – Do you have a Nebraska driver’s license or state ID card? Then you can take advantage of Nebraska’s online voter registration. Just click here to get started!
- At the DMV – Already planning a trip to renew your driver’s license? Be sure to check the box that you would like to register to vote. It’s a voluntary question, so keep an eye out so you don’t miss it.
Step 3: Celebrate & Vote! Now that you’re registered, let’s talk 2018. Next year Nebraskans will vote in midterm elections for a wide array of elected offices, all the way from U.S. Senator to local school board. It’s important you make your voice heard because our government will only work when it is reflective of those it serves.
Want to get election updates and opportunities to reach out to awesome voters like you? Sign up to be a Voting Rights Advocate.
