Appeals Court hears arguments on voter ID law

Friday, October 19, 2012, Vol. 36, No. 42

NASHVILLE (AP) - Attorneys for two Memphis voters told a panel of the state Appeals Court they should strike down a new law requiring voters to show photo identification at the polls because it disenfranchises voters.

Two Memphis residents who lack state-issued photo identification say their votes in the August primary were not counted. Attorneys at an Appeals Court hearing Thursday argued that the new law violates the state constitution, which lists the requirements to vote as proof of age, citizenship, residency and registration.

Attorneys for the state argued the new law is not burdensome and is a reasonable way to ensure the integrity of the ballot box. They said that high voter turnout since the law was put in place in January shows that it does not discourage voters.