(Indianapolis, IN) – Indiana Secretary of State Diego Morales used Tuesday’s Help America Vote Day to draw attention to the nationwide shortage of poll workers, and the importance of citizen involvement in the election process.
Morales is encouraging Hoosiers to register to vote, make a plan to vote, and consider serving as a paid poll worker in the upcoming May Primary Election and November General Election.
“Election workers are an essential part of the election process and it’s one of the most meaningful ways that Hoosiers can do their part to serve their communities. We are excited to recognize Help America Vote Day to help kick-off the new year by bringing awareness to our efforts to recruit poll workers to ensure that all eligible voters in the Hoosier state can cast their ballots in the upcoming elections,” Morales said.
Morales says adequate numbers of poll workers to staff polling places ensures that Hoosier voters receive the assistance they need at the polls, reduces the potential for long lines, and helps provide a smooth voting experience.
While the specific duties and compensation for poll workers vary depending on location, Morales has distributed election improvement grants that are dedicated to increasing poll worker pay and poll worker recruitment, including in several Southeastern Indiana counties.
The Indiana Secretary of State’s Office has a poll worker recruitment program called Hoosier Hall Pass, giving 16- and 17-year-old students the opportunity to actively participate in their community and work on Election Day. To learn more about Hoosier Hall Pass and the requirements or how to become a poll worker, please visit sos.in.gov.
Contact your local county clerk’s office or election office for information about serving as a poll worker.
