The state now requires that voters have an approved photo identification in order to vote.

Like it, hate it, or simply be aggravated that some think it is needed, it is here. Don’t let it keep you from the polls.

If you feel demeaned and diminished by such a requirement, your vote is needed now more than ever before.

If you believe, as some do, that the requirement was simply another effort at keeping some potential voters from going to the polls, then send them a message. Get your free voter ID identification and go to the polls.

The state says it will even provide a free ride to the circuit clerk’s office to get the voter identification card. If you need transportation to and from the clerk’s office to get your voter ID, then call 1-855-868-3745, a number given by the Secretary of State’s office for those needing to arrange transportation.

The state made a promise to see to it that all those eligible to vote and needing a free voter identification card will be able to get one.

To get the ID card, you will need any photo ID document with voter’s name that isn’t already approved for voting, a birth certificate or a document with legal name, date and place of birth; Social Security Card, Medicare card, voter registration card, utility bill issued in previous six moths, a government check issued in the previous six months or an IRS W-2 wage and tax statement. A complete list can be obtained either from the Circuit Clerk’s office or the Secretary of State’s office.

The important thing is that if you don’t already have a driver’s license, passport, student ID card from a Mississippi university, college or two-year college; gun permit, armed services’ ID card or government employee’s ID card with a photo, get the free card.

And vote. Be sure to vote.