On Nov. 4, businesses were hoping to encourage and reward voters by offering free products to anyone who participated in the election, yet they were actually violating a law.

Starbucks, Krispy Kreme, Ben & Jerry’s and many other stores announced last week that they would be handing out free food and drinks to costumers with an “I Voted” sticker.

Yet, they would have actually committed a felony by only allowing voters to participate because such offers could be seen as bribes.

According to the California Secretary of State, such an insinuative violates federal as well as state election laws, and if stores wanted to continue with their endorsements they would have to offer freebies to anyone on election day.

Therefore, stores have quickly revised their promotions to offering freebies to anyone mentioning their election special.

Starbucks released an official statement on Monday that "to ensure we are in compliance with election law, we are extending our offer to all customers who request a tall brewed coffee."

Companies even advertised their election support on social networking sites, such as MySpace and Facebook, which allowed people to RSVP if they were attending any store giveaways.

Moreover, Google announced on their blog earlier today that next to election state information, their most popular search was actually “free stuff for voting,” which peaked at about 11 am.

SF State's Café Rosso, Station Café, Taza Wraps and Smoothies will be also be participating by offering a free small coffee to people presenting a valid voter receipt, stub or sticker.

“This election is critically important to the future of our country, our state and the great City of San Francisco; I want to do everything possible to encourage the SFSU community to vote. I know that offering a complimentary cup of coffee cannot compel you to vote, however, if I can provide that small incentive, I am more than happy to,” said Allam El Qadah, owner and operator of the cafes, in an official press release. “San Francisco is known for its passionate activism, and we have this opportunity to let our voices and our vote be heard in this historic election.”

Election Freebies:

Café Rosso, Station Café, Taza Wraps and Smoothies (SF State) – free cup of coffee

Starbucks - free cup of small coffee

Krispy Kreme - free star shaped doughnut

Ben & Jerry’s - free scoop of ice cream between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m.

Rock the Vote - eight free MP3s (www.rockthevote.com/pledge)

French Connection - 15% off