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The Minnesota Senate is expected to vote sometime today on a constitutional amendment that would require people to present photo identification to vote.  The measure, which has already passed the House, has drawn significant protest from labor unions, DFL leaning groups and others.

Before the Senate went into session, about 300 people held a silent protest outsie the Senate gallery.  Some held signs saying "All of our voices count."  Others had $1 bills taped over their mouths to signify that their voices were being drawn out by corporate interests.

Supporters of the amendment argue that requiring photo identification at the polls will ensure that elections are legitimate.

The measure that passed out the Senate Rules Committee is slightly different than the House ballot question.  If the Senate passes legislation that is different, a joint House/Senate conference committee would likely have to reconcile the differences.

Gov. Dayton cannot veto a constitutional amendment, so the question will be put on the November ballot if it passes the House and Senate.

The Senate went into session but recessed so the Senate DFL and GOP caucuses can discuss the proposal in private.

The Senate passed the amendment 36-30.  Republican Jeremy Miller of Winona joined every DFLer in voting against the amendment.  Every other Republican voted for it.

Politics and Government News

Capitol View®

Tom Scheck

Author

The measure could go on the ballot in November.

Senate set to vote on Voter ID

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