***Press Release*** FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 9, 2013

Contact: Matthew Adair (614) 466-4583

Turner Encourages Continued Collaboration on GOP Voter Registration Proposal

COLUMBUSToday, State Senator Nina Turner (D-Cleveland) issued the following statement after the introduction of Senate Bill 175. The bill, introduced by Senator Frank LaRose (R-Copley) proposes to allow online voter registration in Ohio, allow online absentee ballot requests, and create a Statewide Voter Registration Database. Senator LaRose and I have discussed his voter registration proposals, and I commend his steadfast work on this critical issue. I certainly support many of the concepts that Senate Bill 175 tackles and look forward to working with Senator LaRose on this bill as it moves through the legislature in order to ensure a more inclusive and accessible registration process. In particular, the requirements for online absentee ballot requests are problematic for maximum voter access. The ideas put forth in Senate Bill 175 should encourage further consideration for updating Ohios election process. As the Ohio Constitutional Modernization Commission meets, I will be lobbying the panel to propose a ballot initiative allowing Election Day registration in order to promote a more engaged citizenry. States that offer same day registration, such as Minnesota and Iowa, experience higher voter participation, something that all elected officials should support. On the heels of Judge Marbleys recent decision, it is absolutely imperative that the General Assembly continue to work on comprehensive election reform that will create an environment that encourages and supports the greatest number of Ohioans to participate in their democracy.

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