Q. What if someone who is not registered to vote wants to sign the petition?

A. Though only Ohio registered voters can sign the petition, Ohioans can register to vote and sign the petition at the same time. They can also update their voter registration on the same day as they sign the petition. Have them follow this QR code link to check voter registration:

Ohioans can now register to vote online, however it is cumbersome, please use paper voter registration forms when possible. Please note: paper voter registration forms must be turned in within 10 days of signing, but aim for 3-5 days.

Q. Will the signature be rejected if the printed name doesn’t exactly match the name in the voter file? For example, do people need to include their middle initial when they sign? Or nicknames, like Jen instead of Jennifer?

A. No, the name does not need to exactly match, but it would be best to include full names and the middle initial.

Q. What if the signer’s town does not match the one listed in the voter registration database?

A. People signing the petition should make sure their address matches the address listed with the Ohio Secretary of State, even if the town is different from what they use to receive mail (use QR code above to confirm).

Q. What is the best way to correct a mistake on the petition?

A. If a signer makes a mistake of any kind on the petition, the circulator should neatly cross out the mistake and have the signer start over in a new box.

Q. Would it be ok for a volunteer signature collector to carry personal protection such as mace? 

A. Yes.

Q. Are 17-year-olds who will be 18 by election day able to sign the petition?

A. Yes, as long as they are 18 by election day, they can sign the petition. If they are not yet registered, they would first need to register and then sign. They can register to vote the same day they sign the petition.

Q. Does this amendment address gender-affirming care?

A. No, the amendment is about protecting women’s reproductive rights.

Q. Are minors able to access abortion without parental consent?

A. No. The current law in Ohio requires minors (under 18) to get the consent of one parent before they can get an abortion. (There is also an option to go to court and get permission from a judge for minors who can’t get the consent of a parent.) The text of the amendment says nothing about minors or parental consent at all.

Under federal law, and for decades, minors have been able to get confidential access to contraceptives through the federal Title X program. Again, this amendment just doesn’t address that issue.