COLUMBUS — Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose announced today the launch of a new initiative designed to recognize Ohioans who are voting for the first time and celebrate the milestone of making their voices heard in an Ohio election.
Secretary LaRose announced the First-Time Voter Initiative on National Voter Registration Day during a visit to Mifflin High School in Columbus. The initiative is focused on young Ohioans who have not yet voted, as well as newly naturalized citizens participating in their first Ohio election, with the goal of helping them form a lifelong habit of active civic engagement as voters.
First-time voters can scan a QR code available at their polling place or early voting center to participate in the initiative. After scanning the code, voters can request a personalized state proclamation recognizing them for casting their first ballot in an Ohio election, as well as graphics to share on social media. If a first-time voter chooses to cast their ballot by mail or wants to sign up after leaving the polls, they can do so at OhioSOS.gov/FirstTimeVoter.
“Casting your first ballot is an important milestone,” said Secretary of State Frank LaRose. “Whether you’re a young Ohioan voting for the first time or a newly naturalized citizen taking part in an election for the first time, this initiative is about recognizing that moment and celebrating your participation in our democracy.”
The initiative builds on Secretary LaRose’s efforts to help new voters become familiar with the voting process and encourage lifelong participation in elections. The Secretary’s office has also expanded its outreach to young Ohioans through initiatives such as Grads Vote, which provides over 150,000 graduating seniors with information about registering to vote and opportunities to participate in the election process.