Rep. Walsh: Stop Voter Fraud

Press Release

Today Congressman Joe Walsh (IL-8) introduced the Federal Elections Integrity Act, which requires voters to present a government-issued photo ID to vote in federal elections. Currently Illinois and 33 other states do not require a photo ID on Election Day.

"Current federal law requires those voting in federal elections to be American citizens," said Walsh. "This long overdue bill simply enforces that requirement and will be a huge step towards combating voter fraud in this country."

Congress passed the REAL ID Act in 2005 that required states to make driver's licenses and other state-issued ID cards contingent upon citizenship and visa status. Moreover, the bipartisan Commission on Federal Election Reform also advocated for photo ID requirements when voting.

"Voter fraud in this country is a real issue. We have seen plenty of examples of people lying about who they are, and convicted felons, dead people, and illegal immigrants voting. This bill is just common sense. The American people understand that it makes no sense that a photo ID is required to get a library card or board an airplane, but not required to do something as sacred as voting."

Following the introduction of the Federal Elections Integrity Act, Walsh will work with Republicans and Democrats to push for swift action on the bill.

Highlights of the Federal Elections Integrity Act:

State or election officials are forbidden from providing a ballot to a person voting in person unless they can verify their identity through a current government-issued photo ID.

If the voter does not have an ID at the time the ballot is requested, they will be issued a provisional ballot in which they will need to provide the required ID within 48 hours.

Those voting by absentee ballot must submit a copy of the required ID. This rules exempts overseas military voters.

Bill takes effect in 2013 and will be in place for the November 2014 elections.

Source