Election officials adjust voting procedures in Tennessee counties affected by Hurricane Helene

Sponsored Ad

Election officials in six East Tennessee counties impacted by Hurricane Helene have made adjustments to ensure residents can participate in early voting and the Nov. 5 election. Polling locations may change, but voters will still have the option to vote absentee or in person. Early voting begins next week.

Tennessee Secretary of State Tre Hargett assured voters that absentee ballots could still be requested up to 90 days before Election Day. Those who have lost or have not received ballots are encouraged to contact their local elections office.

Several changes to polling places were announced, including a relocation of the Cocke County Election Commission in Newport and temporary changes to polling sites in Carter County. The Trade Center in Johnson County may have limited access, and Unicoi County will hold Election Day voting at Temple Hill Elementary Library. Greene County polling locations will remain open, but voters should check road conditions.

In addition to election adjustments, Governor Bill Lee announced a $2,500 tax credit for Tennesseans whose primary residences were damaged by the storm. The credit is available for furniture and major appliances for individuals who received FEMA assistance.

The storm, which claimed 16 lives, is still under investigation by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, which is also looking into nine missing persons.