HARRISBURG,  Oct. 31, 2012 – State Sen. Christine M. Tartaglione today reminded voters that Pennsylvania officials have extended the deadline to apply for an absentee ballot.

 “Hurricane Sandy forced a halt to most government services, putting pressure on last-minute absentee ballot applicants,” Tartaglione said.  “The new deadline gives those affected by the storm and local election officials a chance to catch up.

The deadline to apply for an absentee ballot for the upcoming General Election had been yesterday at 5 p.m.   That deadline has been extended until 5 p.m.Thursday in Philadelphia and other counties affected by the storm.

Even with the extended deadline, time is short for those who can’t vote in person on Nov. 6, Tartaglione said.

“The deadline for turning in the ballot is still 5 p.m. Friday, which is unchanged,” Tartaglione said. “Voters who apply for an absentee ballot should be prepared to fill it out and vote on the spot, rather than wait for the ballot to come in the mail.”

Absentee ballots can be obtained at City Hall, Room 142.  Anyone with questions can call the city elections office at 215-686-3469.