2nd Wis. judge strikes down state’s voter ID law


By Associated Press
Monday, March 12, 2012

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — A second Wisconsin judge struck down the state’s voter identification law on Monday, less than a week after another judge temporarily stopped it.

Dane County Circuit JudgeRichard Niess issued a permanent injunction calling the law unconstitutional because its requirements abridge the right to vote.

The ruling complicates plans by state Elections Division officials to have the voter ID law in effect for the April 3 presidential primary.

The lawsuit was filed last year by the League of Women Voters. The group’s attorney, Susan Crawford, said she is pleased with the ruling.

“This is a great day for the citizens of Wisconsin,” Ms. Crawford said. “It emphasizes that the right to vote is fundamental and cannot be infringed by the Legislature.”

A message left Monday with a Department of Justice spokeswoman was not immediately returned.

A different judge in a separate case last week granted a temporary injunction against the law’s taking effect for the primary. Attorneys for the state have requested to delay that order.

There are four lawsuits challenging the law, which was passed last spring. Supporters say it helps prevent voter fraud. Opponents counter there are few documented cases of wrongdoing.

2nd Wis. judge strikes down state's voter ID law - Washington Times