10/24/2026
NC BALLOT AMENDMENT 3: WHAT ABOUT OUR MILITARY VOTERS?
There's been some confusion about how North Carolina's proposed voter ID amendment could affect members of our armed services, especially those serving overseas or in combat zones.
Let's clear up a few things.
1. Military voters already have ID requirements.
Under current NC law, military and overseas voters must submit acceptable photo ID documentation OR complete an ID Exception Form when returning their absentee ballots.
2. They can vote electronically.
Eligible military voters can request, receive, and return ballots electronically through North Carolina's special military and overseas voting procedures.
3. But what about those serving in combat or sensitive locations?
Not every service member has reliable internet access, permission to use a smartphone, or access to a scanner or printer.
Military operations, security restrictions, and deployments can make ordinary communication difficult.
4. What happens if they can't copy their ID?
North Carolina currently provides an alternative. Military voters can complete an ID Exception Form instead of submitting a copy of their identification.
5. So what would Amendment 3 actually change?
It would expand the constitutional photo ID requirement from in-person voting to ALL methods of voting, including absentee voting.
It would NOT automatically eliminate electronic military voting or the existing ID exceptions.
However, the amendment would place the broader requirement in our state Constitution, while leaving the details of future exceptions to the General Assembly.
THE BOTTOM LINE:
Our military personnel already have procedures for voting while serving away from home. The question surrounding Amendment 3 is how those procedures and accommodations would be protected under a broader constitutional requirement.
Before voting, take time to understand what the amendment actually changes and what protections already exist.
🇺🇸 Every eligible service member deserves a practical way to exercise their right to vote, wherever duty takes them.
Sources: NC State Board of Elections Military and Overseas Voting; Senate Bill 921 (Session Law 2024-58).
