The Missouri House is expected to consider a requirement for voters to show photo identification at the polls. State lawmakers have debated the concept previously, but this is the first time Republicans have held a veto-proof majority in both the House and Senate. In the past, discussion generally fell along party lines with Republicans favoring the idea and Democrats opposing it.
Legislation requiring voters to show photo ID at polling places is scheduled for debate in the Missouri House. House Majority Leader John Diehl said he expects a proposed constitutional amendment mandating photo ID and a bill implementing the rule to be taken up on the House floor this week.
Republicans argue the measure is needed to cut down on voter fraud. Democrats contend the photo ID requirement is aimed at disenfranchising voters.
