Recent problems with voter registration for students is reaching statewide attention as the ambiguous voter laws for Virginians seems to new and clear interpretation.

When it comes to college students living on campus, listing your school Post Office box number is not deemed as an appropriate location for a “domicile.” Tracy Howard, the City of Radford Registrar, has been sending postcards to students who have attempted to register in Radford. The “postcard is confusing, misleading,” said Radford University student Nikki Rampino.

Several students at RU started their own group in response to these postcards. The Fair Voter’s Registration Alliance (FVRA) was created to raise noise about the legality of the voter laws pertaining to college students.

To many, these postcards offer doubt, confusion, and frustration in a situation that must be solved by October 6. At first, the passion of the FVRA led them to plan a protest at the Registrar’s office; however, both parties have come to terms for a temporary resolution to a look at the bigger issue at hand. That will involve calling on the Virginia General Assembly to clarify on current voter laws.

“All of this started with us being angry at him and thinking he was treating us unfairly, but now he’s working with us, and that’s a really good thing because he wants to help,” said Jenna Miller, a senior at RU and member of the FVRA.

By joining forces, both Howard and the FVRA will focus on making a difference for every college student in Virginia. The ACLU of Virginia has taken an interest into these proceedings and is making some progress into changing these laws quickly.

Both Ramino and Miller are adamant in getting citizens to understand the necessity to freely vote. This election poses as a stage for which students and young adults everywhere can a make a difference and take part in democracy.

Having record numbers of people signing up to vote, many see registration as a gateway to a green pasture. Now imagine that gate posting a no trespassing sign to land that you have a right to be on. That has been the frustration for many so far.

“We want him to just give us the same presumption of residency as any other student, person that lives in Radford,” Miller miller.

With Monday being the registration deadline, it is best to know exactly what you need to do. You need to list out all of your current information along with your current address in Radford. The key is knowing the difference between your mailing address and actual physical address.

For those living on campus, such as a dormitory, listing your dorm hall and room number must be on the application. Your P.O. Box must also be provided, but not as a physical address. If you have questions regarding the postcards or registration it would be best to visit Tracy Howard at the Registrar’s office, located at 106 Arlington Ave, Radford.

Wheatley Stefan is an intern for the New River Voice.