Partisan fight looms over Voter ID bill
By Jay Root / Associated Press
Posted: 02/28/2009 12:00:00 AM MST


AUSTIN -- The Texas Senate is gearing up for battle over a plan to tighten ID requirements for voters.

Republicans say Voter ID -- as the legislation is known at the Capitol -- is crucial to stop ballot fraud. Democrats complain that it's intended to erect hurdles to keep their base voters, such as minorities, away from the polls.

Sen. Troy Fraser, R-Horseshoe Bay, has alerted senators he plans to bring up the bill before a special committee that includes all senators March 10. That could make Voter ID legislation the first substantive, non-emergency bill to hit the Senate floor during the 2009 session.

If it became law, voters would have to present a valid photo ID or alternative identification papers.

Officials say the Senate, where Republicans hold a 19-12 majority, could pass the legislation as soon as March 16. Its fate in the House, where Democrats have more power, isn't clear yet.

Democrats say the legislation is designed to bolster GOP strength at the voting booth. They contend it would discourage minorities, the elderly and other voters who lean Democratic from showing up at the polls.

"They are so scared that if they don't get this done that Democrats can pick up seats in the House next go-round, that a Democrat could be very viable statewide," said Sen. Leticia Van de Putte of San Antonio, the chamber's Democratic leader and a possible 2010 candidate for governor.

"They are so desperate to get this done."

Fraser, sponsor of the legislation, said the bill would enhance the integrity of the voting process and ensure that noncitizens, who aren't eligible to vote, don't sway elections.

http://www.elpasotimes.com/politics/ci_11804842