Missouri Court Upholds Voter Photo ID Law, Advocates Plan Appeal
Missouri Voter ID Law Upheld
A Missouri law requires voters to show government-issued photo IDs to cast regular ballots. This law is constitutional, as decided by Cole County Circuit Judge Jon Beetem.
The law emerged from a constitutional amendment approved by voters in 2016. Missouri Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft supports the law, stating it ensures voting security.
Proponents claim voter ID laws help prevent fraud and build public trust in elections. However, critics argue these laws can create barriers. Those lacking IDs may struggle to obtain them, especially older citizens and people with disabilities.
The National Conference of State Legislatures reports that 36 states require some form of identification to vote, with 21 states mandating photo IDs. In Missouri, voters without IDs can cast provisional ballots. Their votes will count if they present ID later or if election officials confirm their signatures. The state also provides free photo ID cards for those who need them.
In 2022, the Missouri NAACP and League of Women Voters challenged the law, stating it places obstacles in voters’ paths. They expressed concerns about provisional ballots potentially not being counted. Judge Beetem previously dismissed the lawsuit, noting no concrete injury was presented by the plaintiffs.
When a new voter was added to the lawsuit, Beetem reaffirmed his stance. He highlighted that all plaintiffs had voted successfully under the law. He deemed the claim of provisional ballots being rejected as speculative, noting low rejection rates.
Judge Beetem concluded that the photo ID rules help protect the voting process. Lawyers for the plaintiffs plan to appeal the ruling.
Marilyn McLeod, President of the Missouri League of Women Voters, stated that the state should make voting easier. She pointed out a lack of evidence for voter impersonation in Missouri.
The 2022 law also allows in-person voting for any reason starting two weeks before an election, a compromise with Senate Democrats.