LaRose Launches First-Time Voter Initiative

Ohio's new program recognizes residents casting their first ballot in the state and encourages lifelong civic participation among young and newly naturalized voters.

Updated on Oct. 31, 2026 in Civic Engagement

Photograph of a plain wooden ballot box with a slotted lid in a sunlit, empty civic room with tall windows and a bare brick wall, evoking Ohio's first-time voter recognition program. — Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose launched a First-Time Voter Initiative on National Voter Registration Day, offering personalized state proclamations to residents casting their first Ohio ballot. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose launched the First-Time Voter Initiative, which lets first-time voters request a personalized state proclamation by scanning a QR code. The program was announced on National Voter Registration Day during a visit to Mifflin High School in Columbus.

Why it matters

The initiative aims to help young Ohioans and newly naturalized citizens form a lasting habit of active civic engagement as voters. It targets residents who have not yet voted and recognizes those casting a ballot in their first Ohio election.

The initiative uses a QR code at polling places and early voting centers, with an online option at OhioSOS.gov/FirstTimeVoter for mail voters or those signing up after leaving the polls. The extraction does not specify participation targets or program funding.

The players

Frank LaRose

Frank LaRose is Ohio's Secretary of State, the state official overseeing elections and voter access in Ohio.

The details

First-time voters can scan a QR code at polling places or early voting centers to request a personalized state proclamation for casting their first Ohio ballot, along with graphics to share on social media. Voters who vote by mail or sign up after leaving the polls can use OhioSOS.gov/FirstTimeVoter.

National Voter Registration Day: initiative announced during a visit to Mifflin High School in Columbus.

Civic Engagement Track

The initiative extends the Ohio Secretary of State's voter outreach efforts by focusing specifically on first-time voters and newly naturalized citizens. It is positioned as a tool for building long-term voting habits rather than a one-time registration push.

First-time Ohio voters can scan a QR code at their polling place or early voting center to request a personalized proclamation. Those voting by mail or signing up after leaving the polls can visit OhioSOS.gov/FirstTimeVoter to participate.

The takeaway

Voting for the first time is a milestone worth marking, and Ohio's program gives new voters a simple way to celebrate it. Building the habit early can shape civic participation for decades.