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Josephs says parolees and former offenders have right to register

HARRISBURG, Sept. 8 – As the Oct. 6 deadline approaches, state Rep. Babette Josephs is reminding Pennsylvanians, including former offenders, that there's still time to register to vote for the November election.

"This year's race for president has had a number of twists and turns, garnering a great deal of attention by young and old alike," Josephs said. "If you want to cast your vote on November 4, you should make sure you are registered to vote.

"If you are 18 by November 4, a citizen and a resident of Pennsylvania for at least 30 days, you are eligible to vote. That includes convicted felons who have served their sentence and been released from prison," said the chairwoman of the House State Government Committee, which reviews legislation related to voting.

"I've been hearing reports that some former offenders have been told that they cannot vote, but that is simply not true; if they have paid their debt to society, they can register to vote."

Those people in jail awaiting trial, in prison for a misdemeanor or on probation or parole also may vote.

In 2000, the Pennsylvania law forcing convicted felons to wait five years after their release from prison before being able to register to vote was found unconstitutional.

To be eligible to vote in Pennsylvania, you must be at least 18 on the date of the election, a citizen of the United States for at least one month before the election, and a resident of the election district in Pennsylvania in which you register at least 30 days before the election.

Residents can register to vote in a number of ways: in person, by mail and even online. More information on how to register and where to vote on Election Day is available from Josephs' constituent service office by calling 215-893-1515, or by contacting the Philadelphia Voter Registration office at 215-686-1500 or 215-686-1509.

More information on voting in Pennsylvania, including who qualifies as an eligible voter, can be found at www.votespa.com.

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