A presidential election year normally draws higher numbers of voters, but statewide races and ballot issues along with voter-registration efforts seem to have led to an increase in interest this year.

"This being a presidential year is a major factor, but Utah has the race for governor and attorney general and other executive offices at the same time," says Amy Naccarato, director of the state elections division. "Plus, there are a number of amendments on the ballot that are drawing people out."

Several online sites have posted printable registration forms, including the official Utah elections site, http://www.elections.utah.gov/Registration.pdf. There are also forms available at various locations throughout the state, including libraries, post offices and other state agency offices. Satellite registration locations have been set up for those wishing to register in person and residents can do so at their respective county clerk's office until Oct. 25.

The University of Utah student government and the Hinckley Institute of Politics are sponsoring VoteProject, a campaign to "register, educate and mobilize young voters." The U. is not only helping more students to register, but asking them to pledge their appearance at the polls on Nov. 2.

"We're basically building a political buzz on campus," said Taylor Morgan, director of the U.'s student government relations board. He said nearly 3,000 students have registered to vote in the past three weeks.

"A lot of students are getting involved in the controversial issues going on now, both locally and nationally," he said.

Naccarato agreed, saying there has been a significant increase in voter registration among college students and other young people, a group that normally has the lowest turnout.

She said registration also is growing among those serving overseas in the military and on missions for the LDS Church.

Registration forms are being sent to troops deployed overseas. Utah's large population of missionaries and their parents are also sending in and inquiring about absentee ballots, which must be postmarked by Wednesday.

Registration is valid for life. Re-registration is necessary if voters have moved, changed names or wish to change party affiliation, especially in cases of a primary election. A voter must be 18 years old and a citizen of the United States. A person must attain residency, having lived in Utah at least 30 days prior to the election and intend to stay indefinitely.

wleonard@sltrib.com