A trial is set to begin today over Missouri’s law requiring voters to show photo identification at the polls.
The lawsuit was brought by the NAACP and the League of Women Voters. It challenges the latest version of the state’s photo ID requirement, which became law last year. Photo ID laws passed in 2006 and 2018 were struck down by the Missouri Supreme Court.
Acceptable forms of ID include a non-expired Missouri driver’s or non-driver’s licence, a non-expired military or veteran’s ID, or a non-expired U.S. passport. Someone who doesn’t bring photo identification to the polls can cast a provisional ballot, but must return later with photo identification for the ballot to be counted. The provisional ballot would also be counted if the voter’s signature on the ballot matches the signature on their voter registration card. This determination is made by each county election authority.
The plaintiffs argue that Missouri’s photo ID requirement will disenfranchise minorities, the elderly and the disabled. Supporters of the requirement argue that photo identification is required to rent a car or buy alcohol and should be required to vote. They also argue that it would help combat voter impersonation fraud.
The trial begins at 9am this morning in Jefferson City and will be heard by Cole County Circuit Judge Jon Beetem.