Bradley Radu / Staff Writer

With the Nov. 3 general election approaching, Saline County voters should know where to vote, what identification to bring and what to do if something goes wrong at the polls.

Missouri polling places will be open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Election Day. Voters who are already in line when polls close at 7 p.m. are still allowed to cast a ballot.

To vote in Missouri, a person must be a U.S. citizen, a Missouri resident, at least 18 years old by Election Day and properly registered. Missouri voters are also required to show an acceptable government-issued photo ID, such as a Missouri driver’s or non-driver license, U.S. passport or other qualifying state or federal identification.

A registered voter who does not have acceptable photo identification may still be able to cast a provisional ballot.

Problems at the polls can involve more than identification. A voter may arrive and find that their name is not listed in the poll book, be told they are at the wrong polling location or face another issue that prevents them from immediately receiving a regular ballot.

In those situations, voters should speak with an election judge and ask what options are available before leaving. Election officials may be able to verify the voter’s registration, direct them to the correct polling location or, when appropriate, provide a provisional ballot.

Voters who believe they are being improperly prevented or discouraged from voting can call or text the nonpartisan Election Protection hotline at 866-OUR-VOTE, or 866-687-8683. The hotline assists voters with issues involving registration, identification, polling locations, provisional ballots, intimidation and other problems at the polls.

If someone believes Missouri election law has been violated, the Missouri Secretary of State’s Elections Complaint Information Line is 1-800-669-8683, or 1-800-NOW-VOTE.

More serious concerns involving violence or threats should be reported to law enforcement.

Before Election Day, voters should verify their registration, confirm their polling location and bring an acceptable photo ID. Most importantly, voters who encounter a problem should ask about their options before walking away from the polls.