OCTOBER 30, 2007

Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land today is encouraging voters to cast their ballots on Tuesday, Nov. 6, and reminds them of the new voter identification requirement.

"School districts, cities and community colleges in 75 Michigan counties are among those holding elections this November," said Land, the state's chief elections officer. "Decisions that affect you are made at the local level on a daily basis, and that means your participation in the voting process is vital. I urge you to stop by your polling place on Election Day and cast your ballot."

Starting with this election, voters will be asked to present photo identification. Photo ID includes a Michigan driver's license, state-issued personal ID card, or other acceptable form of ID.

"The voter ID requirement simply adds another layer of protection against fraud and ensures the integrity of our elections," said Land. "However, the law recognizes that not everyone will have an acceptable photo ID. That means voters without photo ID will still be able to vote."

Voters who do not have photo ID with them at the polls can sign an affidavit attesting to that fact, and they will then receive a ballot that will be counted with all others.

In addition to a Michigan driver's license or state-issued ID, other acceptable forms of

ID include:

• Driver's license or personal identification card issued by another state
• Federal or state government-issued photo identification
• U.S. passport
• Military ID with photo
• Student identification with photo from a high school or accredited institution of higher learning
• Tribal identification card with photo

A recent Michigan Supreme Court ruling upheld a 1996 law that required voter identification at the polls.

Voters who do not have photo ID and want one can get a state identification card at their local Secretary of State branch office for $10. State ID cards are free to individuals who are

65 or older, blind, or who have had driving privileges terminated due to a physical or mental condition. Proof of identity and residency are required when applying for a state ID card.

Additional information on elections and voter identification can be found at www.Michigan.gov/sos.