RAPID CITY, S.D. – As South Dakotans head to the polls today, civil rights advocates are reminding voters to understand their rights and protections while casting a ballot.
The American Civil Liberties Union of South Dakota says voters have the legal right to vote free from intimidation, harassment or interference. Officials note that aggressive behavior, threatening actions, or attempts to intimidate voters near polling places are against the law and should be reported immediately to election officials.
Advocates also want voters to know that forgetting a photo ID does not prevent them from voting. Registered voters who do not have identification with them can sign a personal identification affidavit and still cast a regular ballot.
If a voter’s name cannot be found on the registration roster, they may request a provisional ballot, which election officials can verify after Election Day. Voters who make mistakes on their ballots can also request replacement ballots from poll workers.
State law also requires polling places to be accessible for voters with disabilities, and individuals needing assistance may bring a family member or friend into the voting booth.
Polls are open from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. local time, and anyone in line by 7 p.m. is entitled to cast a ballot. Election advocates encourage voters experiencing problems at the polls to immediately speak with election workers or call the national Election Protection hotline.
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