Understanding What Time Is The Election is crucial for every eligible voter. In Louisiana, exercising your right to vote on election day is straightforward once you know the key timings and procedures. This guide provides essential information to ensure you are fully prepared to cast your ballot.
Louisiana Election Day Hours
For those wondering “what time is the election?”, it’s important to note that voting hours in Louisiana vary slightly depending on whether the election falls on a Saturday or a Tuesday.
- Saturday Elections: Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Tuesday Elections: Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.
It’s vital to arrive at your designated polling place within these hours to ensure your vote is counted. Furthermore, if any issues or questions arise on election day, the principal office of the registrar of voters in each parish is also open during extended hours to assist voters: from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturdays and 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Tuesdays.
Finding Your Polling Place
Knowing what time is the election is only part of the equation; you also need to know where to vote. Louisiana offers several convenient ways to locate your designated polling place:
- Louisiana Voter Portal: Utilize the Louisiana Voter Portal and enter your information to find your specific polling location. This online tool is the most direct way to get accurate, up-to-date information.
- Registrar of Voters Office: Contact your parish’s Registrar of Voters Office directly. They can provide you with your polling place details and answer any election-related questions.
- Voter Information Card: Keep an eye on your mailbox! A voter information card is mailed to registered voters, and this card lists your assigned polling place.
It’s always a good idea to confirm your polling location before election day, as polling places can sometimes change. Make sure to go to the correct location to avoid any delays in voting.
Voter ID Requirements on Election Day
When heading to the polls, remember to bring a valid form of photo identification. Louisiana law requires voters to present identification to cast their ballot. Acceptable forms of photo ID include:
- Driver’s License
- Louisiana Special ID
- LA Wallet digital driver’s license
- United States military identification card (must contain name and picture)
- Any generally recognized picture ID that includes your name and signature
If you do not possess any of the listed photo IDs, you are still able to vote. You can cast your vote by signing a voter affidavit. Additionally, a free Louisiana Special ID can be obtained from the Office of Motor Vehicles by presenting your voter information card. If you’ve misplaced your card, you can get a new one from your registrar of voters or print one from the Louisiana Voter Portal.
Assistance for Voters with Disabilities
Louisiana is committed to ensuring all eligible citizens can vote, including those with disabilities. Several provisions are in place to assist voters:
- Priority Access: Visibly disabled voters and one person assisting them are permitted to go to the front of the line at their polling place, minimizing wait times.
- Voting Assistance: Voters who are unable to read or cannot vote independently due to a physical disability, including visual impairment, are entitled to assistance. This assistance can be provided by a person of their choice, or voters can opt to use the audio ballot.
- Audio Ballot: For voters who are visually impaired or prefer to vote by audio, Louisiana’s voting systems offer an audio ballot option.
- Accessibility Documentation: While assistance is readily available, voters needing ongoing assistance can file a statement with the registrar or provide documentation from a medical professional on election day. Acceptable documents include letters from doctors, optometrists, or disability benefit documentation.
- Accessible Polling Places: If a voter is assigned to an inaccessible polling place, they can vote at the nearest accessible polling place with the same ballot or at the Registrar of Voters Office.
It’s important to note that while voters can choose someone to assist them, there are restrictions to prevent undue influence. For example, candidates, employers, union agents, and certain facility staff are prohibited from assisting voters. Anyone assisting a voter must complete a voter assistance form, ensuring transparency and accountability.
Louisiana’s Voting System: AVC Advantage
Louisiana utilizes the AVC Advantage voting system for election day voting. This system is designed to be user-friendly and accessible. Key features of the AVC Advantage system include:
- Direct Recording Electronic System: Ballots are displayed electronically on a screen, making the voting process clear and straightforward.
- Easy-to-Read Ballot: The system features a large font size, enhancing readability for all voters.
- Wheelchair Accessibility: The AVC Advantage system is designed to be accessible to voters using wheelchairs.
- Audio Voting Keypad: For voters who are visually impaired or prefer to vote by audio, the AVC Audio Voting Keypad is available.
The AVC Audio Voting Keypad makes voting accessible to individuals with visual impairments, physical disabilities, or those who struggle with or cannot read written English. Using the audio keypad is optional and available to all voters.
Make Your Voice Heard
Knowing what time is the election, where to vote, and what to expect ensures a smooth and successful voting experience. Louisiana makes efforts to accommodate all voters and provide the necessary information and assistance. For the most accurate and detailed information, always refer to the official resources provided by the Louisiana Secretary of State and your local Registrar of Voters Office. Your vote is your voice – make sure it’s heard!
