The New York Times recently ran a piece on the potential for our country’s high foreclosure rates to cause trouble on election day this fall. Basically, the problem is that most states tie voter registration and eligibility to a residence and people whose homes have been foreclosed may not be able to prove where they live.
Foreclosure and Disenfranchisement
Here’s a little background information about the problem of mortgage foreclosure for those who want to vote, according to the Times:
- Residence requirements: Most states organize voting and voter registration by county, meaning that voters can register to vote by proving their residence in their home county.
- High foreclosure rate: But, as sources note, insiders are expecting as many as three million foreclosures this year, meaning that millions of voters may be between homes at the time of the election.
- Transient voters: To make matters worse, many Americans are finding themselves in non-traditional housing situations, including living in motels, staying with friends or family members, staying in shelters and living in their already-foreclosed homes.
- Trouble at the polls: Because of these complications, many analysts are expecting complications on Election Day.
One of the problems, the Times notes, is that the voter registration system in most states is outdated, and was developed in an era when people didn’t move around as much as they do today. Further, citizens are required to notify their voting district of any changes of address – something that’s likely not high on the list of priorities of someone in danger of losing his house.
Foreclosure, Voting, and Future Laws
The problem of voting for those in danger of losing their homes may seem especially troubling when considered in a larger context: elections determine who gets to go to the state and federal legislature and determine new laws, which could potentially have an impact on issues important to the financially strapped.
In the years leading up to 2005, credit card companies lobbied hard for the passage of the Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act (BAPCPA), which made it more difficult and more expensive for consumers to file for personal bankruptcy protection. It’s uncertain whether the number of foreclosures in the U.S. will have a similar effect on future laws concerning matters of bankruptcy and foreclosure.
If you have lost your home or expect to lose your home to mortgage foreclosure, the Times suggests taking these steps to ensure your ability to vote on Election Day:
- Start planning now: Contact a local representative or branch of your preferred political party to find out what your state’s laws are in regards to voting and residence.
- Don’t give up: You may have to jump through a few hoops, but if you want your voice to be heard, it’s important to stick with the process in order to ensure your ability to vote.
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- Chapter 7 Debtor Defers Income Tax Refund And Protects The Money From His Bankruptcy Trustee
- Halt Foreclosure On Your Home With Bankruptcy
- Can Foreclosure affect our Credit Score?
- Common Debts That Are Discharged by Bankruptcy
