Just ahead of the 2014 elections, a federal appeals in Wisconsin approved the implementation of the state’s voter ID law.
The three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 7th Circuit ruled that the Badger State could implement its voter ID law while the courts hear cases over the constitutionality of the law.
But the appeals court decided that the state had such a good case that there was no longer any reason to hold up the law.
“The panel has concluded that the state’s probability of success on the merits of this appeal is sufficiently great that the state should be allowed to implement its law,” said the ruling.
The appeals court ruling means that the voter ID law will be in force for the November 2014 elections.
“Today’s decision is a victory for common sense, fair elections and the right of every eligible voter to cast a vote that will count,” Republican Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen said in a statement to the media. “This ruling vindicates the law and our efforts to ensure the policy of this state will be in effect for November’s election.”
Gov. Scott Walker’s (R) office released a statement praising the decision.
“The ruling is a win for the electoral process and voters of Wisconsin. Voter ID is a common sense reform that protects the integrity of our voting process. It’s important that voters have confidence in the system. Today’s ruling makes it easier to vote and harder to cheat.”
But still in play is the decision of US District Judge Lynn Adelman who struck down the law as unconstitutional in April. An appeal of the decision is still to be fully decided.
The following IDs will be acceptable for voting in November.
- Wisconsin driver’s license, even if driving privileges are revoked or suspended.
- Wisconsin identification card issued by the Department of Transportation.
- Military ID card issued by a U.S. uniformed service.
- U.S. passport.
- Certificate of naturalization issued within two years of the election.
- A driving receipt issued by Wisconsin DOT, which is valid for 60 days.
- An identification card receipt issued by Wisconsin DOT, which is valid for 60 days.
- An identification card issued by a federally recognized Indian tribe in Wisconsin.
- A photo identification card issued by a Wisconsin accredited university or college that says the date it was issued, bears the student’s signature and is good for only two years. Students also must present a separate document that proves enrollment.
Follow Warner Todd Huston on Twitter: @warnerthuston. Email the author at igcolonel@hotmail.com.