General Assembly approves political apparel at voting booth

Posted to: Elections News State Government Virginia
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The Associated Press
© February 28, 2009

RICHMOND

Voters would be allowed to wear T-shirts, buttons or other political paraphernalia to the polls under a bill that has passed out of the General Assembly.

The Virginia State of Elections had prohibited voters from wearing apparel with political slogans or candidates' names at the polls on Election Day because of a state law that outlaws electioneering within 40 feet of the polling place.

Opponents said the rule violated voters' free-speech rights, and advocacy groups filed a lawsuit.

The bill also clarifies residency requirements for voters, which became an issue last year with an unprecedented number of voter registration drives on college campuses.

The Senate passed it unanimously on Saturday. The House voted 92-2 on Friday.

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I am so happy

Submitted by gabriellel45516 on Sat, 02/28/2009 at 2:45 pm.

Yes, I'm absolutely thrilled the legislature has solved all of the problems facing the Commonwealth.

Private property rights mean nothing to the brains in Richmond, but free speech at all costs must be upheld.

Ya gotta love the ability to pick and choose just what parts of the Constitution get upheld and which parts get cast aside because they may inconvenience someone.