Why do I need my photo I.D. at the polls?

The Michigan Supreme Court ruled on July 18, 2007, that a provision of Michigan election law that requires voters to either present picture identification or sign an affidavit if they do not have picture identification with them is constitutional and enforceable. (See MCL 168.523 for picture identification requirement.) While this requirement was originally enacted by the State Legislature in 1996, the requirement was never implemented due to a prior ruling issued through the Attorney General's office.

Due to this ruling, the County of Kalamazoo Clerk's Office Election Division and all other jurisdictions across the State will implement this new requirement beginning with the election on November 6, 2007. To implement this requirement, precinct election workers will ask voters for photo identification at the polls. The following are acceptable forms of photo identification, assuming they are current and a picture is provided:

Michigan Driver's License or Personal ID

Non-Michigan Driver's License or Personal ID

Federal or state government-issued ID

U.S. passport

Military ID

Student ID - high school or accredited institution of higher education

Tribal ID card

If the voter does not have an acceptable photo ID in his or her possession when offering to vote, that voter may sign an affidavit attesting that he or she is not in possession of a photo ID. A voter who completes an affidavit will be allowed to vote a regular ballot.

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1. Where can I register to vote?
2. When may I register to vote?
3. May I pick up an absentee ballot for my spouse?
4. Can I vote by absentee ballot?
5. I have power of attorney for my spouse. Can I pick up an absentee ballot for him/her?
6. How can I vote by absentee ballot in every election?
7. I'm on the permanent absentee voter list, why didn't I receive a ballot?
8. Why do I need my photo I.D. at the polls?