You can now request absentee ballots for Nov. 8 election

     Iowans can begin requesting absentee ballots for the November General Election starting Aug. 30. State law allows Iowans to request absentee ballots beginning 70 days before an election. County auditors will begin mailing absentee ballots to those that requested them starting Oct. 19. That is also the first day Iowans can vote in-person for the Nov. 8 election.

   “It’s important to have a plan when it comes to voting,” Secretary of State Paul Pate said. “You have multiple options available. If you plan to vote by mail, go ahead and send your absentee ballot request form in now. That will make it easier for you and your county auditor when it comes time to cast your ballot.”

   Absentee ballot request forms are available at https://bit.ly/22GenABS. Voters need to download the form and mail it to their county auditor. Providing a phone number or email address on the form is encouraged, but not required.

   Oct. 24 is the last day absentee ballots can be mailed.

   In-person voting will be offered at the courthouse beginning Oct. 19 through Nov. 7. All Jones County polling locations will be open on Election Day (Nov. 8).

   Military members stationed outside the U.S. and overseas citizens can also begin requesting absentee ballots for the November General Election. That request form is available at www.fvap.gov/uploads/FVAP/Forms/fpca2013.pdf.

   For more information, visit jonescountyiowaelections.gov or call the Jones County Auditor’s Office at 319-462-2282.