Oklahoma
State Senate
Communications Division
State Capitol
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73105
For Immediate Release: February 16, 2009
Senator John Ford
Full Senate Next Stop for Voter ID Bill
The Senate Rules Committee has approved a pro-active
bill designed to strengthen the integrity of Oklahoma's elections.
Senate Bill 4, by Sen. John Ford would require anyone voting in
person to show proof of identity.
Ford said voters could use a photo ID issued by the United States,
the State of Oklahoma or a federally recognized Indian Tribe or
Nation. Voters without a government issued photo ID could simply
show their county issued Voter ID card.
"I believe that we have a right and a responsibility as citizens
to vote, but as a state, we have a responsibility to make sure
that every vote that's cast is a legitimate, valid vote,"
Ford said. "That's all this bill does."
Ford, who represents Nowata, Craig and Washington Counties, said
providing identification is a part of every day life, and is required
for writing checks, boarding a plane, as well as many other routine
transactions.
"I truly believe that this enhances the quality of our election
process. In no way will it disenfranchise any group--it doesn't
keep anyone from voting, and it is not a poll tax because there
is no expense to the voter. It simply gives greater protection
to our system against the possibility of fraud."
For more information contact:
Sen. Ford's Office: 405-521-5634