#AdvocacyMatters: One Call Away
November 3, 2023 / #AdvocacyMatters
Election day, and the days right before it, can be a stressful time for Ohioans with disabilities. In Ohio, new voter ID laws, changes to curbside voting, and shortened absentee ballot timelines may cause significant barriers for voters in our state. We want to take some time today to lay out these changes ahead of November 7th and remind you of our free Voter Hotline on Election Day.
In April of 2023, new voting laws under H.B. 458 came into effect. Under the new voting laws, acceptable forms of I.D. to vote in person include:
- Ohio Drivers’ License – Unexpired
- U.S. Passport
- Military I.D.
- Ohio State I.D. Card
Notably, bills or government documents are NOT sufficient ID, like in previous years.
Regarding absentee ballots, they must be postmarked the day before Election Day and be received by the board of elections 4 days after the election (this is a shortened timeline – previously Ohioans had 10 days).
Voters only have 4 days after the election to correct a provisional ballot. A provisional ballot allows voters to cast a vote where their eligibility to vote is in question. This is also a change from years past when voters had 7 days.
Lastly, we have seen changes to Curbside Voting. Only those physically unable to enter a polling location are eligible for this option. However, poll workers are not allowed to question a voter’s assertion that they’re unable to enter the building.
With all these changes, it may make you feel fear or worry during election day. We are here to help ease that worry – staying only one short call away. You can call DRO’s Voter Hotline with ANY voting issues on Election Day from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. (800) 282 – 9181 or 614-466-7264. We know #AdvocacyMatters in the voting booth, and we take pride in making sure you can have your voice heard.
More voting resources:
Resources for Ohio Voters with Disabilities
Secretary of State Directive on H.B. 458
View your ballot Ohio
DRO’s Voting Webpage
Fair Elections’ Know Your Rights Guide
Ohio’s Early Voting Schedule:
- November 1-3: 7:30 a.m. - 7:30 p.m.
- November 4: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
- November 5: 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
- Note that there is NO early voting the Monday before the election (November 6)