PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Secretary of State A. Ralph Mollis is offering voters some advice to help make their trip to the polls go smoothly on Election Day.
To avoid delays on Nov. 2, voters can use the Secretary of State's website at sos.ri.gov to find their polling place, confirm the accuracy of their voter registration, find out what time their polling place will open and see a sample of their ballot.
"All that information is available with just a few clicks of your mouse. Checking ahead of time will help avoid problems when you go to the polls,” Mollis said.
Some Rhode Islanders will find that their polling place has changed. Statewide there will be 537 polling places open, nearly 90 more than there were for September's primary.
The polls will open between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m. depending on the community. More than 700,000 Rhode Islanders are eligible to vote.
Because the polls are usually busiest from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. and 7 p.m., Mollis advises voters to go during off hours.
Voters whose eligibility is challenged at their polling place can vote using a provisional ballot, which will be counted if elections officials determine that their voter registration is valid.
Any eligible voter in line when the polls close at 9 p.m. will be allowed to cast a ballot. Voters are allowed to bring a marked sample ballot or other material that will help them in the voting booth.
Rhode Islanders who unexpectedly will be unable to vote at their polling place on Election Day. They can go to their city or town hall Mon., Nov. 1, and request an Emergency Ballot.
More offices will be on this year's ballot than in 2008. There are races for both of Rhode Island’s Congressional seats, the five general offices, state senate, state representative and many municipal races. In addition, there are four statewide ballot questions and most cities and towns also have local questions on their ballots.
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 distributes handbooks that explain how to run for office, explain how to register and vote, and describe ballot questions and bond issues.
Secretary of State Mollis is committed to making it easier for Rhode Islanders to vote, helping businesses grow and making government more open and accessible. For more information about voting on Election Day, visit sos.ri.gov or contact the Voter Help Line at (877) 462-8683.
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