Monday, September 15, 2025

Eaton Fire Survivors Have Pathways to Register on National Voter Registration Day

Displaced residents in Altadena and Pasadena can still register to vote despite temporary homelessness

Tuesday marks National Voter Registration Day, an annual observance that takes on special significance this year for thousands of residents displaced by the Eaton Fire in Altadena and Pasadena. California’s voter registration laws provide multiple pathways for fire survivors to maintain their voting rights even while temporarily homeless or relocated.

Observed annually on the fourth Tuesday in September, National Voter Registration Day encourages eligible Americans to register to vote.

For Eaton Fire survivors facing displacement and uncertainty about permanent housing, California law specifically protects their right to participate in elections.

“Disaster victims should not be disenfranchised because of circumstances beyond their control,” according to the legislative intent behind California’s elections law, which includes several provisions designed to accommodate voters affected by natural disasters.

California offers several solutions for displaced fire survivors who need to register or update their voter registration. The state allows individuals without fixed addresses, including those experiencing temporary homelessness for any reason, to register to vote using a description of where they sleep or spend time.

For those who have moved to new temporary housing within California, the state facilitates voter registration updates at new addresses.

Additionally, voters displaced by natural disasters can request emergency absentee ballots under California law.

The LA County Registrar-Recorder manages voter registration for both Altadena and Pasadena residents, centralizing services for the affected communities.

For full voting information, contact the LACRR at any one of the methods below.

Phone Numbers:

• Registrar of Voters: (800) 815-2666
• Vote Center Information: (800) 815-2666, Option #1

Email:

• Voter Information: voterinfo@rrcc.lacounty.gov
• General Information: publicinfo@rrcc.lacounty.gov

Website:

• Main Website: www.lavote.gov
• Voter Registration Status: www.lavote.gov/vrstatus

Hours:
Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Same-Day Registration Provides Flexibility

California implemented same-day voter registration and voting in 2018, available at county election offices and polling places during early voting periods and on Election Day. This option provides crucial flexibility for displaced residents who may have missed the standard 15-day registration deadline before elections.

For those with California driver’s licenses or identification cards, online registration also remains available through the Secretary of State website, offering a convenient option for those with internet access.

“California leads the nation in making voter registration accessible and convenient for all eligible citizens,” according to standard messaging from the California Secretary of State office.