New Kentucky Bill Requires Voters to Have Valid Photo ID

Senate Bill 2 is going into effect for the general election this fall.

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(Frankfort, Ky.) - The Kentucky statehouse passed a bill on Tuesday that will require most Kentucky residents to present photo identification in order to vote.

Going into effect for the general election this fall, Senate Bill 2 passed by a 62-35 vote.

Current Kentucky law allows eligible voters to cast a ballot if they present personal identification, but now with Senate Bill 2 voters will need an identification that is government-issued with a photograph of them. Secretary of State Michael Adams, who is a supporter of the bill says,

“The bill is needed to combat voter fraud through impersonation and restore public confidence in the election system.”

The House made some changes to the Senate version of the bill, one of which would allow poll workers to vouch for the identity of those they know. Representative James Tipton said,

“The issue is about protecting the integrity of the ballot.”

With these changes, the bill will have to go back to the Senate before heading to Gov. Andy Beshear’s desk.

The bill also includes financial help for those who cannot afford to buy a photo ID.