Student-criticized voter-ID bill passes in the Senate
For those following the state legislation that would require voters to present photo identification at the polls -- something students say would unfairly hinder a lot of student voters -- the Senate bill has passed on a party line vote of 37 to 26.
MPR's Capitol View reports that Sen. Warren Limmer, R-Maple Grove, said the measure will help modernize the state's voting system and bring integrity back to that system.
"The public deserves to have confidence in the integrity of our election system," Limmer said. "And nothing inspires confidence like a well-ordered system that's secure and safe for the voter, and photo identification would certainly accomplish that."
Create a More Connected Minnesota
MPR News is your trusted resource for the news you need. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.
The Friends Action Network reported yesterday on the bill's counterpart:
In the House, the most recent stop for the companion bill was a hearing in Civil Law committee yesterday. The bill now awaits action by the full body.
If Gov. Mark Dayton vetoes the legislation, Capitol View writes:
A veto would slow, but not end the photo ID effort. Republican supporters have already introduced legislation to put the issue on the statewide ballot in 2012 as a proposed constitutional amendment. That process bypasses the governor and gives voters the power to approve the requirement.