Updated guide reflects expanded voter access made possible through new “Let RI Vote Act” law
PROVIDENCE, RI – Secretary of State Nellie M. Gorbea and Attorney General Peter F. Neronha today released the Know Your Rights election guide in advance of Rhode Island’s general election. The Guide has been updated to reflect the expansion of voter access made possible through the “Let RI Vote Act,” signed into law in June of 2022.
“The right to vote is fundamental to our democracy, and it is a right this Office is committed to protecting,” said Attorney General Peter Neronha. “My Office, together with the Secretary of State’s Office, stands ready to preserve and protect each Rhode Islander’s right to cast their vote safely and without intimidation or interference.”
“I have spent my entire life fighting for voting rights,” said Secretary of State Nellie Gorbea. “You can help defend our democracy and have a say in your government by voting this November. Your vote matters. Your Secretary of State and Attorney General stand ready to ensure no one interferes with or takes your vote away from you.”
If someone interferes with your right to vote through threats, intimidation, or coercion, you can report it immediately using the Attorney General’s online complaint form or by calling the Voter Information Hotline by dialing 2-1-1, then pressing 5.
In addition to information about how voters can report possible violations of their voting rights, the Guide reminds voters of their rights under Rhode Island law, including:
- The right to vote without pressure or intimidation.
- The right to vote in person in the 20 days leading up to Election Day at a location designated by your city or town.
- The right to vote in person at your designated polling place on Election Day.
- The right to bring someone with you to the polls if you require assistance.
- The right to bring one of many different photo IDs to identify yourself at your polling place. The Guide lists acceptable IDs.
- The right to request a provisional ballot if your name is not on the voter roll or if you do not bring an acceptable photo ID with you at your designated polling place.
- The right to register to vote on Election Day.
- The right to vote by mail for any reason.
- The right to submit your mail ballot without the signature of witnesses or a notary.
- The right to fix your mail ballot or mail ballot application if it is rejected.
- The right to vote regardless of gender identity – you can get a free Voter ID card that better aligns with your gender identity at the Elections Division of the Secretary of State’s Office.
- The right to vote while incarcerated for a misdemeanor, as soon as you are released from prison for a felony, or while you have been charged with a crime, or are awaiting trial, sentencing, or incarceration for any offense.
Information regarding voter registration and voting procedures in Rhode Island can be found on the Secretary of State’s website.
You can view or download the Know Your Rights Guide here, in English or in Spanish.
