Would-be voters with cell phones can now start the process of registering by sending a text message, thanks to a program the Pennsylvania League of Young Voters Education Fund unveiled last week.

Cell phone users throughout Pennsylvania need only send the message "Pgh" or "Pa" to the number 75444.

They then get a message asking for their name and address, and if they supply it, an already completed voter registration form will be sent to their residence.

The would-be voter needs only to sign it and send it in by the Oct. 10 registration deadline to vote in the Nov. 7 election. On Election Day, they will get a text message reminding them to vote, and telling them where their polling place is.

Khari Mosley, regional director of the fund, said he was "very excited about this."

"Our group is always striving to think of new ways to encourage voter registration, especially among the younger population."

The messages are sent via a secure channel and the information provided by registrants will be kept private and protected, the fund said.