Voter Identification: The True Costs An Analysis of Minnesota’s Voter Identification Amendment

Abstract

The proposed voter identification ballot measure to amend Article VII, Section 1 of the Minnesota Constitution will fundamentally change the state’s election system. Few states, notably Georgia and Indiana, have implemented equally stringent identification requirements. Executing voter photo identification in Minnesota poses an unprecedented challenge in accommodating Election Day registration. In addition, state and local officials will face monumental tasks: influencing enabling legislation, drafting sound election rules and procedures, and effectively managing election costs. Lastly, with an implementation date of November 2013, time and resources will be extremely limited for effectively addressing all challenges.