Representative Bryan Posthumus (R-Rockford) introduced legislation to amend the Michigan Constitution to require proof of citizenship when registering to vote and a photo ID to cast a ballot. It also requires the state to provide photo ID free of charge to citizens who can’t afford it.
Key Points:
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- For this to be placed on the general election ballot, it will need to pass both the House and Senate by a two-thirds vote, instead of the typical majority.
- The requirements within the amendment would apply to anyone registering to vote after December 18, 2026.
- Photo identification would be required to vote in person. Those who forget their ID would cast a provisional ballot, which wouldn’t be tabulated unless they provide a photo ID within six days.
- Under the proposal, the legislature would define how citizenship can be proved.
- Those who vote via absentee ballot would verify their identity by providing a copy of their ID, a driver’s license number, a state personal identification number, or the last four digits of their social security number.
- On an ongoing basis, the state would be required to verify that everyone who appears in the statewide qualified voter file is a U.S. citizen.
Next Steps:
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- House Joint Resolution B was referred to the House Election Integrity Committee for consideration.
- Governor Whitmer will not need to sign the measure for it to be placed before Michigan voters.
