Sen. Ford Renews Push to Prevent Election Fraud

Sen. John Ford is renewing his effort to protect Oklahomans against election fraud. Ford has filed Senate Bill 1150 which will require voters to show identification when they cast their ballots. While similar legislation has gone unheard in past sessions, Ford said it was important to keep fighting for this measure.

“The role voters play in determining the future of our cities, counties, state and nation is just too important to leave it open to fraud,” said Ford. “Senate Bill 1150 will protect the integrity of the process by helping ensure that only duly registered voters participate in elections.”

Ford, who represents Craig, Nowata and Washington Counties, said his measure simply requires voters to show identification at the polls. Voters could use a valid voter identification card, driver license, passport, state identification card, a copy of a current utility bill, bank statement, government check or paycheck, or any other government document showing the voter’s name and address.

“No one thinks twice when asked for identification when writing a check or for commercial air travel,” Ford said. “When you consider the critical roll elections play in determining our very future, it is simply good sense to make sure we do everything possible to protect that future by ensuring citizens who are registered voters are the ones making those decisions.”

If approved, SB 1150 would take effect on January 1, 2009.