NCDP Chair Jerry Meek and Young Democrats President Zack Hawkins applauded Democratic leaders today on the passage of same day voter registration. Gov. Mike Easley signed the bill into law on Friday.

The new law allows voters to register up to three days before Election Day, down from 25 days under the old law. The measure also provides several safeguards to ensure the integrity of voter registration and toughens criminal penalties for those who commit fraud.

Republican State Auditor Les Merritt attempted to stall passage of the bill by citing a flawed preliminary report that ultimately yielded no evidence of voter fraud.

Thanks to the hard work and energy of the Young Democrats of North Carolina and grassroots activists, the bill prevailed against such attacks.

“We should do everything we can to encourage people to vote, especially when stringent safeguards are in place to prevent voter fraud," said NCDP Chair Jerry Meek. “Despite Mr. Les Merritt's attempt to derail this legislation with misinformation, our legislators wisely concluded that same day registration was the right thing to do.”

Zack Hawkins, president of the Young Democrats of North Carolina, also hailed the bill’s passage.

“This will revolutionize the way young people vote in North Carolina,” Hawkins said. “It will allow us to continue to engage and inspire young voters to participate in the democratic process, especially during the critical, last days leading up to an election.”