Wis. Republicans want change on voter ID

MADISON, Wis. — Two Republican lawmakers who have introduced a bill requiring voters to show a photo ID at the polls want to lock in the change with an amendment to Wisconsin's Constitution.

Rep. Jeff Stone and Sen. Joe Leibham argue requiring identification is a common-sense way to stop voter fraud. But, Democrats say it will make it harder for legitimate voters to cast their votes.

Amending the constitution is a lengthy process that could take years. It would require the measure to be approved in the current legislative session, again in the session that begins in January 2013 — and then by voters in a statewide referendum.

The Journal Sentinel says the proposal as it stands would be among the strictest voting requirements in the country.