| For Immediate Release | For More Information Contact: |
| April 24, 2001 | Dan Wolter (651) 296-0640 |
St. Paul, Minnesota The Minnesota House of Representatives took action Tuesday night to strengthen the state's election laws and prevent voter fraud in the future. The cornerstone of the GOP bill requires photo identification for Election Day voter registration. The photo ID measure passed on a 69-65 party line vote* with all Republicans voting in favor and all DFLers voting against. Under the bill, a photo ID is also required by those wishing to vote. Seniors, or those without a photo ID, would simply have to sign an affidavit.
"The right to vote doesn't mean anything unless it is in a fair election," said House Speaker Steve Sviggum (R-Kenyon). "From boarding a flight to buying beer, a photo ID is required. Voting is important enough to demand it as well. Who would have guessed that election reform to ensure clean and fair elections was a partisan issue. It's too bad that the DFL can't step up to the plate and support us in protecting the integrity of the system."
The photo identification requirement was one item of several in the election reform proposals to pass the house. The measures also ensure equal access for members of the U.S. Armed Forces stationed outside the United States by requiring local auditors and clerks to accept their applications, allowing application submitted by fax, and providing that a single application can be made for both primary and general elections. The reform package also allows American Indians to use their tribal IDs as proof of identity.
"The aftermath of the 2000 election in Florida, Wisconsin and other states was a wake-up call that voter fraud is alive and well in the twenty-first century," said Majority Leader Tim Pawlenty (R-Eagan). "An ounce of prevention is worth months of counting pregnant chads. Minnesota may not have a problem with voter fraud today and this action will keep it that way in years to come."
*HF2263, Amendment 633A, First Portion
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