OCTOBER 2, 2006

Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land reminds residents that Tuesday, Oct. 10 is the last day to register to vote for this year’s November general election.

"The right to vote gives strength to our democracy," said Land, the state’s chief election officer. "Your vote is your voice in shaping local, state and federal government. Make sure your voice is heard by registering and then voting.

"I encourage everyone who hasn’t registered to vote, to do so by Tuesday, Oct. 10. You can register at a Secretary of State branch office or at your local clerk’s office. We also offer a mail-in form, which simplifies the process even more."

The mail-in voter registration form is available on the Department of State Web site at www.Michigan.gov/sos.

To register, individuals must be U.S. citizens, at least 18 years old by election day, residents of Michigan and the city or township in which they wish to register.

First-time voters must vote in person at their assigned polling place if they register to vote by mail. The only exceptions are for voters who:

• Personally hand deliver their mail-in voter registration form to their county, city or township clerk
• Are 60 years of age or more
• Are disabled
• Are eligible to vote under the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act

Residents who have moved since they last voted must update their address. Changes of address submitted through a Secretary of State branch office will be reflected on the voter’s registration card.

The November general election is on Tuesday, Nov. 7. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The Secretary of State Voter Information Center at www.michigan.gov/vote allows residents to check their voter registration status and provides complete details about registering to vote. Residents who browse the center will also find their polling places (including a map), information on how to vote absentee, instructions on how to use voting equipment and contact information for their local clerk.

Additional election-related information is available from the Department of State Web site at www.Michigan.gov/sos by clicking on "Elections in Michigan."