The legislation requiring a photo ID for voting in Virginia was unnecessary and a step backward in facilitating participation by all Virginia citizens in our democracy. We should be more concerned about the low voter turnout than imposing additional restrictions on voting.
Election laws and procedures should be designed to facilitate voting and encourage the participation of a large percentage of citizens in all elections. I address the following suggestions which should help facilitate the voting process and increase access to the polls:
Registrars should be encouraged to solicit applicants outside of their offices. While some do not have the resources to do so, it should be encouraged in every way and jurisdiction possible.
Taking the photo and obtaining a signature for the ID should not be limited to registrars or their staff; they should be able to designate persons to do this, such as volunteers.
A registered voter should be able to obtain a photo ID at any registrar's office in Virginia, not just in the jurisdiction where they live.
Registered voters should be able to apply for a photo ID during all days and hours that the registrar's office is open.
A registered voter applying for a photo ID should not be turned away if her name is found in the DMV database.
It is important to make provisions for a temporary voter identification document for those whoapply close to the next election.
The document form or format must be the same throughout Virginia and provided by the Department of Elections
In general, the process should be simple, accessible, straightforward and non-threatening.
