Messmer Column: Securing Indiana's Elections

Local Sources- On this week's Messmer Column, State Senator Mark Messmer (R-Jasper) discusses securing Indiana's Elections.

Hoosier voters have been required to present a form of government-issued photo ID in order to cast their ballot in elections for nearly 20 years.

Identification can include an Indiana driver's license, photo ID card, military ID or a U.S. Passport.

This law was enacted in 2005 to make sure those casting ballots are who they say they are.

However, a loophole has allowed voters to cast mail-in ballots without providing photo identification.

House Enrolled Act 1334 would close that loophole by requiring Hoosiers applying for an absentee ballot to provide an identification number like a driver's license number, the last four digits of their Social Security number or photocopy of their government-issued photo ID.

Like the 2005 legislation that originally enacted photo ID requirements for Indiana, House Enrolled Act 1334 would ensure voters are who they say they are and only cast one ballot.

In recent years, many Americans have expressed concerns about voting security and I believe this legislation will continue to assure Hoosiers that we have fair and secure elections.

The bill now goes to the governor's desk for his consideration.

As always, feel free to contact my office directly with your questions and concerns by email at [email protected] or by phone at 800-382-9467.