A late night debate on a bill that requires voters to show photo identification ends with Senate Democrats delaying its passage. During debate, Senator Kathleen Vinehout (D-Alma) was among Democrats who expressed concerns about rural citizens not having access to a DMV to get a state issued ID. She says in some areas, the service centers are only open once a month.
Concerns about elderly citizens and disabled being unable to make it to DMVs were also raised.
Senator Joe Liebham (R-Sheboygan) notes that seven different forms of ID are acceptable under his bill. He adds that if the voter forgets their ID then a provisional ballot can be cast. The voter then has until close of business the following Friday to show the county clerk their ID. Republicans claim Voter ID will ensure honest elections.
Senator Fred Risser (D-Madison) says under legislation, college students moving to his district this fall wouldn’t be able to vote in the partisan primary, as they haven’t fulfilled the legislation’s 28 day residency requirement.
Democrats used numerous stalling tactics including offering amendment after amendment, that was voted down by the Republican majority. Shortly after midnight, Republicans approved the measure on a voice vote but Democrats later objected to a third reading of the bill, thus blocking final passage.
Senate President Mike Ellis (R-Neenah) says the chamber will take up the bill Thursday morning.
