Ohio State Senate Passes Strict Photo ID Bill
WASHINGTON, D.C. — On Tuesday, Dec. 13, the Ohio Senate approved House Bill 458, a bill that would impose a strict photo ID requirement on Ohio voters. The bill also restricts absentee voting and enacts other changes to election administration. Currently, Ohio voters are required to present a non-photo ID, such as utility bills or bank statements, when voting. Since the bill was substantially amended in the Senate, the Ohio House will need to approve it again before going to Gov. Mike DeWine (R).
H.B. 458 would require virtually all Ohio voters to present a form of photo identification, such as a Ohio driver’s license, state ID card, interim identification form, U.S. passport or passport card or military ID card. In-person voters without a valid photo ID will have to vote with a provisional ballot and provide a photo ID after Election Day to have their vote counted. Voters who vote absentee by mail will have to provide a copy of their photo ID, their Ohio driver’s license or ID number or the last four digits of their social security number.