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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
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State
Rep. Ronald G. Waters |
  
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Waters reminds constituents, ex-offenders to register by deadline
PHILADELPHIA, Sept. 3 -- State Rep. Ronald G. Waters, D-Phila./Delaware, is reminding residents that time for registering to vote in the upcoming election is running out.
Oct. 6 is the last day to register to vote in the Nov. 4, 2008, election.
"People now have just over a month left to register," Waters said. "Registering to vote is such a small thing in terms of time and effort, but it is of huge importance in making sure your voice is heard."
Waters also said there is a misconception that often exists about the right of ex-prisoners to vote.
"In Pennsylvania, people have the right to vote if they have been released from prison and are on probation or parole, regardless of whether their crime was classified as a felony or a misdemeanor," Waters said. "I want everyone who is eligible to recognize their right to vote and to exercise it this fall."
Pretrial detainees and misdemeanants are eligible to register to vote and/or to vote by absentee ballot if they qualify to vote under law. However, Waters said convicted felons who are incarcerated on the date of a primary or general election are not eligible to vote, regardless of whether they are registered.
Waters said information on voting rights for ex-convicts can be found in the Pennsylvania Department of State's guidebook: "Voting rights of convicted felons, convicted misdemeanants and pretrial detainees" and online at www.votespa.com. More information is available by contacting Waters' constituent service office at 215-748-6712.
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