DOTHAN, Ala. (WTVY) - Although neighboring states opened voting polls as early as October 15, Alabama does not allow ballots cast before election day.

Certain groups can fill out absentee ballots — but that is not the same as early voting.

Now, some organizations are pushing for change.

“It’s first responder friendly, employer-friendly, plus family-friendly,” Trinette Stanford, President of the Southeast Alabama Chapter League of Women Voters, said.

There is a process for change, and it starts with the legislature.

“I think it needs to be explored in Alabama,” House Representative Steve Clouse (R) said.

However, exploration is often accompanied by opposition. During the 2020 voting cycle, huge skepticism surrounded the fairness of the presidential election and COVID-19 ran rampant, affecting the way people voted.

“Our session was suspended during that period,” Clouse said. “So, when we got back into session, we didn’t have time to address it.”

Perhaps state representatives will address it in 2025. The League of Women Voters is already working on a bill to support early voting in Alabama.

Some argue early voting leads to ill-informed voters or does not influence voter turnout.

Whether Alabamians support early voting or not, one sentiment remains clear — everyone should get out and vote.

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