NH Lawmakers Pass Voter ID Bill

New Hampshire voters will be forced to provide certified photo identification or a signed affidavit to cast their ballots in this November’s election if a bill passed by the Republican-controlled state legislature Wednesday survives a threatened veto by Democratic Gov. John Lynch.

 

The bill, which combined two different measures from the state House and Senate, was approved Wednesday by a margin of 255-103, according to the New Hampshire Union Leader.

Lynch has threatened to veto the voter ID measure, but the margin of passage was large enough to override a veto if Lynch decides to push the issue and  lawmakers don't change their votes.

 

Under the terms of the bill, New Hampshire voters will be required to show a photo ID or sign an affidavit attesting to their identity in order to cast their ballots in this year’s presidential election.

 

Supporters say the voter ID bill will ensure that only legally registered voters participate in the election. But critics insist the bill is designed to suppress the votes of the poor, the elderly and young people.