Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land encourages residents to go to the polls Tuesday, May 6.

"This is the time when some local communities hold elections on school board membership, bond proposals, and seats in local government," said Land, Michigan's chief elections officer. "Your vote could impact your child's education, your library and your neighborhood. I encourage you to visit your local polling place and cast a ballot."

Over 430 school districts are holding elections, as are 18 cities, 33 townships and six villages. There are also three countywide elections and votes affecting libraries.

To find out if there is an election in their community, voters can visit the Secretary of State Web site at www.Michigan.gov/sos or check with their county clerk's office. In addition, the Michigan Voter Information Center can help residents determine whether they're registered to vote. If they are registered, it will direct them to their polling location. The Web site is www.Michigan.gov/vote.

Voters who need to have their absentee ballot mailed to them must apply for the ballot no later than 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 3. Absentee ballots can be obtained in person anytime through 4 p.m. on Monday, May 5. Voters who request an absentee ballot in person on Monday, May 5 must vote the ballot in the clerk's office. Emergency absentee ballots are available under certain conditions through 4 p.m. on the date of the election.

Voters are again reminded of the identification requirement. They will be asked to present photo ID at the polls, such as a Michigan driver's license or identification card.

Voters who don't have a Michigan driver's license or identification card can show the following forms of photo ID:

• Driver's license or personal identification card issued by another state
• Federal or state government-issued photo identification
• U.S. passport
• Military identification card with photo
• Student identification with photo from a high school or an accredited institution of higher education, such as a college or university
• Tribal identification card with photo.

Anyone who does not have an acceptable form of photo ID or failed to bring it with them can still vote. They will sign a brief form stating that they're not in possession of a photo ID. Their ballots will be included with all others and counted on Election Day.

A specially equipped voting station, called the AutoMARK Voter Assist Terminal, is also available at each polling location for use by voters with disabilities.

Additional election information can be found at www.Michigan.gov/sos.

Related Link
> May 6, 2008 - Elections by County