By Shelley Kofler, KERA News
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/kera/local-kera-958568.mp3
Dallas, TX – Today, the full Texas House is expected to consider legislation that would require voters to show photo identification. KERA's Shelley Kofler reports the controversial measure has already passed the Senate and is likely to become state law.
Voter identification is among the most partisan legislative issues in Austin.
Republicans claim that showing a valid photo when voting will prevent fraud. Democrats say there's no proof of fraud now and the requirement will keep likely democratic voters, especially those who are elderly or minority, from casting ballots.
The legislation going to the House floor calls for most voters to show a photo ID issued by the state or federal government. That would include a drivers license, passport or concealed handgun permit.
Sensing victory the Texas Republican Party has urged supporters to wear red shirts and sit in the House gallery during the debate.
In the past two sessions republicans tried to pass weaker voter ID bills and failed. This time they have a super-majority in the House and democrats will find it more difficult if not impossible to kill this voter ID bill.