The Ohio legislature just voted to pass a modern-day poll tax that could charge an individual $58,500 or more to exercise their right to vote.
Senate Bill 296 could force an individual to pay out of their own pocket the cash bond to keep a polling place open past “normal hours” of 7:30pm, even if they experience equipment malfunctions, inclement weather, or other problems. In the past, courts have stepped in to give Ohio voters a full 13 hours to vote, free of charge. But now, this new legislation could cost an individual voter $58,500 or more to have their chance to vote.
Anyone who asks the courts for longer voting hours could be forced to front tens of thousands of dollars to cover overtime pay for every poll worker in the county. And if the voter can afford that, then they are the only one who gets to vote and the polls remain closed to all other voters who faced the same problem.
And given the long lines and other problems Ohio voters sometimes face, this new bill would clearly prevent eligible Ohioans from voting.
The only way to stop this bill is if Governor John Kasich vetoes it.
CLICK HERE for more information about the House/Senate bill.
NYC Wins When Everyone Can Vote! Michael H. Drucker
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