The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Q&A on the News
Q:I have received different answers as to what constitutes one’s name being “deactivated on” or “purged from” Georgia’s voter list. I have been told that missing two election cycles will “deactivate” a voter and that a cycle includes any election, including “special” elections, such as the one scheduled in Gwinnett County next March. The Coweta County Registrar’s Office informed me that it meant missing two general elections, but could not explain what a “general” election means. Can you provide insight? — Nancy C. Alford, Newnan
A: A registered voter can be placed on “inactive status” if he or she fails to make “contact” with elections officials for three consecutive calendar years, according to state law. “Contact” includes filing an updated voter registration, filing a change of name or address, confirming residence at the address on file or signing a voter’s certificate or petition.
Before a voter can be designated as inactive, however, county officials will mail a notice seeking confirmation that the voter still resides at the address of record, according to the Secretary of State’s office. If the county does not receive a response within 30 days, the voter will be moved to inactive status. If a voter on inactive status does not vote or make contact in another way for two additional federal general election cycles (a total of four years), voter status may be canceled.
All told, a voter would have to abstain from voting or making any contact with elections or registration officials for up to seven years before risking cancellation on the voter rolls. Once canceled, individuals must re-register in order to vote.