Governor Matt Blunt has signed into law a bill that will require anyone voting or registering to vote to present photo identification. The requirement, which is aimed at preventing voter fraud, is scheduled to begin with this November’s elections. Missourians who do not have a U.S. Passport or state issued document, such as a driver’s license, will be issued non-driver ID cards free of charge. The legislation contains a number of exemptions. Those with physical or mental disabilities, handicaps, or religious beliefs prohibiting photos will be allowed to cast ballots without the new ID requirement. Secretary of State Robin Carnahan, an opponent of the photo ID bill, has been quick to criticize. She claims as many as 170,000 Missourians could be disenfranchised by the new requirement.

Related web sites:
Missouri SB 1014