With the June 16 Oklahoma primary election approaching, election officials are reminding voters about state laws governing conduct at polling places, including restrictions on electioneering, voter interference and access to voting areas.

 

The reminder is intended to protect the integrity of the voting process and ensure polling places operate smoothly.

 

Under Oklahoma law, only voters and election officials are permitted inside the election enclosure where voters check in, receive ballots and cast their votes. Individuals who are not voters or election workers are prohibited from remaining within 30 feet of a ballot box while voting is underway. Minor children accompanying voters are exempt from the restriction.

 

Election officials also warned against illegal voting practices. It is a crime to vote more than once in an election, vote in a precinct after transferring voter registration to another precinct, vote while knowingly ineligible, or submit an absentee ballot issued to another person.

 

Electioneering or advocating for or against a candidate or ballot issue is also prohibited within 300 feet of any ballot box during an election. This practice may include verbal advocacy or displaying campaign-related materials such as signs, pamphlets, shirts, buttons or hats.

 

The board also reminded voters that Oklahoma law prohibits bringing intoxicating liquors within one-half mile of a polling place on Election Day. Individuals may not attend an election or remain within 300 feet of a polling place while intoxicated.

 

Early voting gets underway today, with polling locations open from 8am to 6pm today and tomorrow and from 8am to 2pm on Saturday. Oklahoma voters are required to provide proof of identity before casting a ballot.