HB 223 VOTER ID REQUIREMENTS

Rep John Block

Actions: [3] not prntd-HRC

Scheduled: Not Scheduled

 House Bill 223 (HB 223) relates to elections and requires voters to present identification before voting, and allows for free identification cards to be issued by the Motor Vehicle Division.   

 House Bill 223 (HB 223) enacts a new section of the Election Code and amends current sections of the Election code to require voters to present identification before voting.  

First, the bill amends what is considered “required voter identification”.  For in-person voting, the required voter identification is a current driver’s license or identification card issued by the Motor Vehicle Division.  For absentee voting by mail, the required voter identification is a current driver’s license or ID card or their social security number. To register to vote, a person must provide a copy of the required voter identification. It removes the current acceptable forms of identification (such as a photo ID with or without an address, utility bills or other documents). No other documents are required to vote.  

Second, the bill requires the city, county or state government offices to provide a free xerographic copy of a voter’s identification document if requested by a voter. 

Third, the bill makes the following changes that conform with new identification requirements: removes the ability of the Secretary of State to exempt voters from submitting identification if required by federal law; removes the procedure if a signature roster indicates that a voter must a physical form of identification; allows a challenge if the required voter identification does not conform with law; provides that if the required voter identification is challenged, the voter can vote on a provisional ballot; requires that a provisional paper ballot be qualified so long as the voter has provided a copy of the required voter identification; and removes the procedure for when a new voter has registered without submitting the required voter identification.  

HB 223 waives the fee for an identification card if it is requested for voter identification purposes.