Free Rides to PennDOT available for voter ID

	FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
State Rep. Harold James D-Philadelphia www.pahouse.com/james

Free rides to PennDOT available for voter ID

PHILADELPHIA, Oct. 2 – Members of the Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus, Philadelphia Delegation and Black Clergy of Philadelphia and Vicinity on Monday announced an initiative to provide free rides to Philadelphians who wish to register to vote or obtain acceptable photo ID under the state's voter ID law.

"Getting the appropriate photo ID will be made easier with the free rides being offered by local churches," said Rep. Harold James, D-Phila. "I am hopeful that everyone who needs an ID will take advantage of this service during the coming week."

The Rev. Terrence Griffith, pastor of the First African Baptist Church and president of the Black Clergy, invited all religious institutions to participate in offering the free rides. Those interested in helping out should contact him.

"It was wonderful to see Rev. Griffith, as well as female clergy and members of the Islamic community stepping forward to make sure that everyone's right to vote is protected should the voter ID law remain on the books," said Rep. Ronald G. Waters, D-Phila./Delaware, chairman of the PLBC.

"This is a logical next step for the PLBC to support," said Rep. Vanessa Lowery Brown, D-Phila., PLBC vice-chairwoman. "We have been active in providing the proper information to our constituents, now, thanks to the Black Clergy, we have the opportunity to get them to where they need to get their IDs."

The free rides to Department of Transportation Driver's License Centers will be offered beginning today through Oct. 9. Anyone wishing to request a ride should call the Black Clergy at 267-639-9875.

"Our goal is to ensure that all Philadelphians have access to the resources they need to acquire the proper ID for voting purposes," said Rep. Cherelle L. Parker, D-Phila. "I commend everyone for stepping up to the plate and encourage all leaders of Philadelphia’s diverse religious communities to get involved." Parker is chairwoman of the Philadelphia House Delegation.

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