Relates to providing valid government issued photo identification when casting a ballot

Section 8-303 puts forth the conditions of which an individual would need to provide a government issued photo identification card to vote. These conditions include if the individual registered to vote in a jurisdiction by mail on or after January 1, 2003 or if the individual has not previously voted in an election for federal office in the jurisdiction of the board of elections.

In general an individual meets the requirements of this subdivision if in the case of an individual who votes in person he or she presents to the appropriate election inspector, clerk, or coordinator a current and valid government photo identification or presents to the appropriate election inspector, clerk, or coordinator a copy of a current utility bill, bank statement, government check, paycheck, or other government document that shows the name and address of the voter.

In the case of an individual who votes by mail, submits in the outer envelope with the envelope containing the ballot a copy of a current and valid government issued photo identification or a copy of a current utility bill, bank statement, government check, paycheck, or other government document that shows the name and address of the voter.

In the case of an individual who desires to vote in person, but does not meet the requirements of this subdivision may cast an affidavit ballot, and notwithstanding this, section of law, such affidavit ballot shall be duly cast and counted, even though such individual does not meet the requirements of this section provided such individual casting such ballot is an otherwise eligible voter pursuant to law, provided further that such ballot otherwise complies with the requirement of the law.

Subdivisions one and two of this section shall not apply in the case of a person: (a) who registers to vote by mail and submits as part of the registration either (1) a copy of a current and valid photo identification or (2) a copy of a current utility bill, bank statement, government check, paycheck, or government document that shows the name and address of the voter. As for an individual who registers to vote by mail and submits with such registration either a driver's license or a department of motor vehicles non-drive photo ID number or at least the last four digits of the individual's social security number.

With respect to who a local board of elections matches the information submitted under subparagraph one of this paragraph with an existing state identification record bearing the number, name and date of birth of such voter or who is either entitled to vote by absentee ballot udder the Uniformed add Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act, provided the right to vote otherwise than in person under section 3(b)(2)(8)(ii) of the Voting. Accessibility of the Elderly and Handicapped Act or entitled to vote otherwise than in person under any other federal law.

Justification

To ensure a fair election in which individuals do not cast more than one ballot, voters should be required to provide a picture identification card. These cards, which would be a driver's license, passport, or other government issued document would help prevent fraudulent elections from occurring. Providing such proof of identity is becoming typical procedure whether boarding an airplane or applying for a new job. Identity theft has become a serious concern across the nation and stands as a serious threat to ensuring fair elections are conducted. We need to put specific fortifications in place to make certain our government does not become the next victim of these crimes.

Legislative history

New Bill

Fiscal implications

None.

Effective date

This act shall take effect immediately.