Upcoming Local Elections: What Alabama Residents Need to Know

1. Why Local Elections Matter

Local elections may not receive as much media attention as federal races, but their outcomes are arguably more influential on your day-to-day life. Here’s why they matter:

• Local Decision-Making: Local officials control city budgets, infrastructure projects, public transportation, and more.

• Education Policies: School board members make key decisions affecting education quality and curriculum.

• Public Safety: Sheriffs, judges, and other local officials affect law enforcement and criminal justice policies.

By participating in local elections, residents can influence issues like property taxes, school policies, and public works projects.

2. Key Dates for Alabama Local Elections

It’s essential to stay updated on election timelines to ensure your participation. Here are the important dates for Alabama’s local elections:

• Voter Registration Deadline: Typically, voter registration closes 15 days before the election.

• Absentee Ballot Request Deadline: Voters must request absentee ballots no later than 5 days before the election.

• Absentee Ballot Submission Deadline: Absentee ballots must be received by the county absentee election manager no later than the close of business the day before the election.

• Election Day: Election Day is held on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November for most local elections.

To confirm specific dates for upcoming local elections in your county, visit the Alabama Secretary of State’s website.

3. How to Register to Vote in Alabama

To vote in Alabama’s local elections, you must be a registered voter. Here's how to ensure you're registered:

• Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be a U.S. citizen.

• Must be a resident of Alabama.

• Must be at least 18 years old on or before Election Day.

• Must not be currently incarcerated for a felony conviction involving moral turpitude or declared mentally incompetent.

• How to Register:

• Online: Visit the Alabama Online Voter Registration website to register or update your information.

• In Person: You can register at your local board of registrars, DMV, or public assistance offices.

• By Mail: Download and mail a voter registration form to your county’s board of registrars.

Voter registration deadlines are typically 15 days before the election, so be sure to register early.

4. Who and What Are We Voting For?

Alabama's local elections cover a wide range of positions and ballot measures. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll be voting on:

• Mayors and City Council Members: These officials oversee local government and city ordinances.

• School Board Members: School boards set policies for K-12 education, manage budgets, and hire superintendents.

• County Commissioners: Commissioners oversee infrastructure, zoning, and budget allocation for the county.

• Sheriffs and Law Enforcement Leaders: Sheriffs manage local law enforcement and jails.

• Judicial Positions: These include probate judges and municipal court judges, who handle matters like wills, estates, and minor criminal offenses.

• Ballot Initiatives: Local referenda or initiatives may also appear on the ballot, such as tax levies or zoning amendments.

The specific positions up for election vary by county and city, so it’s important to check with your local election office.

5. Where to Vote in Alabama

Knowing your polling place is crucial to ensure you can vote on Election Day. Here’s how to find it:

• Polling Locations: Use the Alabama Secretary of State's Polling Place Locator.

• Early Voting: Alabama does not offer early in-person voting, but absentee voting is available.

• Polling Hours: Polls are open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Election Day.

Make sure you have the proper identification to vote (see the next section).

6. What ID Is Required to Vote in Alabama?

Alabama has a strict voter ID law that requires registered voters to present one of the following forms of identification at the polls:

• Alabama Driver’s License or State ID

• U.S. Passport

• Alabama Photo Voter ID Card (can be obtained free of charge from the Secretary of State)

• Military ID or Tribal ID

If you do not have a valid form of ID, you can obtain a free voter ID card from the Secretary of State's office.

7. Absentee Voting in Alabama

If you can’t make it to the polls on Election Day, you may be eligible to vote absentee. Here’s how it works:

• Eligibility: You must have a valid reason, such as being out of town, having a physical illness, or being a poll worker.

• How to Apply: Request an absentee ballot from your county's absentee election manager.

• Ballot Submission: You must return the completed absentee ballot either in person or by mail before the deadline.

Absentee voting can be a convenient option, but it requires planning ahead.

8. Tips for Alabama Voters

Voting can be smooth and stress-free if you prepare in advance. Here are some helpful tips:

• Check Your Voter Registration: Make sure your voter registration is up-to-date, especially if you've recently moved.

• Research Candidates and Ballot Measures: Learn about the candidates and local measures on the ballot. The League of Women Voters offers nonpartisan voter guides.

• Know Your Rights: If you're denied the right to vote, ask to cast a provisional ballot and follow up with election officials.

• Bring Proper ID: Ensure you have an acceptable form of photo identification.

• Avoid Last-Minute Voting: Lines are often shorter in the morning or mid-afternoon.

9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I vote if I’m still on parole or probation for a felony?
A: Alabama residents with felony convictions may lose their right to vote, but not all convictions disqualify you. Visit the Alabama Board of Pardons and Paroles to see if your conviction affects your voting rights.

Q2: Can I vote if I forgot my ID?
A: No, you must present an acceptable form of photo ID to vote in person. However, you can cast a provisional ballot and provide ID later.

Q3: Are there language accommodations at the polls?
A: Yes, federal law requires voting materials and assistance to be available in languages other than English where necessary.

Q4: What if I need assistance voting?
A: You have the right to request assistance at the polls if you have a disability, are blind, or cannot read. You can bring someone to assist you or request help from a poll worker.

Conclusion

Alabama’s local elections are an opportunity for residents to influence the future of their communities. From mayors and school board members to sheriffs and city council members, these local officials shape policies that affect everyday life. By understanding key dates, voter ID requirements, and how to register, Alabama residents can ensure their voices are heard. Visit the Alabama Secretary of State's website to check your voter registration, locate polling places, and learn more about upcoming elections.

Make your voice count. Vote in Alabama's local elections!