A bill that would require voters to show a photo ID to vote is still awaiting action by Governor Jay Nixon. Senator Will Kraus (R-Lee’s Summit) sponsored the measure that would also require the state to pay for photo IDs for those that don’t have one and for any supporting documentation, like a birth certificate.
Senator Will Kraus (photo courtesy; Missouri Senate)
“I fully believe he (Nixon) will veto it,” said Kraus. “We will be discussing it during veto session, which is perfectly fine. I believe we’ll have the votes [to overturn the veto].”
Those without photo ID could still vote if they sign an affidavit swearing under penalty of perjury that they don’t have a photo ID, and if they provide a utility bill or paycheck.
“We worked this bill with the minority party. They actually probably want this to pass because it will put voter ID to bed for a while anyways. We have the situation where [voters] can sign a statement. If this didn’t pass on an override, then we would have to potentially be back to address the actual implementation bill,” said Kraus.
Opponents argue voter fraud and impersonation don’t occur and the measure is an effort by Republicans to drive more conservative voters to the polls during an election year.
Kraus is running for Secretary of State.
Nixon has until July 15th to sign or veto bills passed by the legislature this year or they automatically become law.
The legislature’s veto session is September 14.