Voter ID Bill Before House Committee

A House panel is debating legislation that would require most voters to present a photo ID before casting a ballot.

The bill, being heard Tuesday in a special House committee, has already cleared the Senate and is on the fast track for approval in the Legislature.

Democrats and civil rights groups say the legislation would erect new voting hurdles for minorities and the poor. Republicans say it's needed to combat voter fraud.

The bill exempts people over 70. A version up for consideration Tuesday would allow disabled Texans who don't have an ID to cast a ballot without one.

Otherwise, voters who show up without an ID could cast a provisional ballot. The bill must clear both chambers and be signed by Gov. Rick Perry before becoming law.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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