A bill recently past by the Missouri House of Representatives to show an ID when voting has caused controversy.
A bill requiring all citizens planning to vote early in state elections to present identification in the form of plastic ID cards has passed through the Missouri House of Representatives, according to the Kansas City Star. Opponents of the bill believe that the required presentation of plastic ID cards will disenfranchise low-income voters.
Arguments over the bill stem from claims that republicans want to prevent demographics that typically vote democratic from going to the polls. Meanwhile, state GOP members and supporters point to recent voter fraud claims against ACORN as proof of the bill’s necessity. To prevent an issue of unconstitutionality, the bill includes a provision that requires the state to provide plastic ID cards to voters that can’t afford them. Also, those without identification can cast a provisional ballot if they have a birth certificate.
It has become increasingly difficult for some to gain state-issued plastic ID cards in recent years as some states have adopted increased requirements for people applying for an ID for the first time. In eight states, people must produce a birth certificate, social security number, proof of address and proof of signature to receive identification.
Related ID News:
- Iowa hopes to curb identity theft with new ID delivery system
- States consider requiring plastic ID cards at voting booths
- Florida program helps people get birth certificates
- Americans advised to check plastic ID cards of Census Workers
- Nevada legislators, civil rights advocates fight to repeal ID card policy
