Joe.My.God. LGBT News
Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott reacted quickly to today’s Supreme Court ruling on the Voting Rights Act by declaring that all citizens must now present photo ID when voting. Via the Dallas Morning News:
“With today’s decision, the State’s voter ID law will take effect immediately,” Abbott announced. “Redistricting maps passed by the Legislature may also take effect without approval from the federal government.” Laughlin McDonald of the ACLU, on a call with reporters, conceded that Texas has “a very strong argument” that in light of today’s Supreme Court decision, it can implement the Voter ID law and other laws that previously required federal approval.
The Texas Department of Public Safety has announced that starting Thursday, “Photo identification will now be required when voting in elections in Texas.” Starting Thursday, Texas driver license offices will begin issuing photo IDs to anyone who don’t already have one. Under the 2011 state law creating one of the state’s most strict voter ID laws, the certificates are free and valid for six years. To qualify, an applicant must show U.S. citizenship and Texas residency.
Raise your hand if you’re shocked. Abbott, not incidentally, plans to succeed Rick Perry as governor.
RELATED: In April, Abbott said that any Texas city that offers domestic partners benefits to employees is in violation of the state constitution, which bans any recognition of same-sex relationships.