Attention, Voters of Columbia, S.C.!
As we gear up for the much-anticipated general election day, it’s important to keep in mind a few dos and don’ts that will help you avoid any sticky situations when you head to the polls. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) has issued a friendly reminder that taking a photo of your ballot—a practice often referred to as a “ballot selfie”—is strictly against the law in our beautiful state. Yes, you read it right! So let’s dig a little deeper into what this means for you on election day.
What You Can’t Do at the Polls
In South Carolina, there are a few key regulations to remember when you step into that voting booth. First and foremost, you must keep your camera at home. According to SLED spokesperson Renée Wunderlich, bringing a camera or any mechanical device into the voting booth is a big no-no.
So, what else should you look out for? Section 7-25-100 of state law outlines several prohibitions that are important for every voter to know:
- No ballot peeking: You cannot allow your ballot to be seen by anyone else.
- No sneaking photos: Taking a photo of your completed ballot and sharing it is illegal.
- Keep it in the booth: You’re not allowed to remove your ballot from the polling place.
- No identifying marks: Placing any mark on your ballot that would allow it to be identified is prohibited.
- Time limit: If you’ve been notified that your time is up, you must leave promptly.
Helping Hands—Not Allowed
It’s great to want to help your friends and family when they vote, but even your best intentions can cross into illegal territory. Here are some additional actions that are prohibited:
- You cannot interfere with another voter inside the polling place.
- Marking someone else’s ballot? That’s illegal too!
- You shouldn’t try to influence someone’s voting choices while they’re preparing their ballot.
- No inducements! Do not attempt to get someone to show you how they’ve marked their ballot.
- Assisting a voter with a mechanical device is also off-limits.
Why It Matters
These laws are in place to maintain the integrity and security of our voting process. In a time when people are passionate about their political beliefs, it’s essential to ensure that everyone’s voice is heard fairly. Violations of these laws come with serious consequences. If caught, you could face a fine of up to $100 or even up to a year in prison. Not exactly the way you’d want to celebrate election day!
Stay Informed!
As you get ready to cast your vote, remember this friendly advice from SLED. Stay informed, respect the rules, and on election day, just focus on making your voice heard. Gather your friends, get out there, and let your vote count! Now, let’s all get ready to exercise our rights and make a difference in our state. Happy voting, Columbia!
