SC’s Voter ID Law Halted, Feds Need Answers

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO) — The Civil Rights Division of the U.S. Department of Justice requires state officials to provide more details on how the state plans to carry out its new Voter ID Law, requiring voters to produce photo identification at the polls. In a four page letter sent to the SC Attorney General’s office, the U.S. Justice Department said it cannot proceed with approving the state’s new photo ID voter law unless and until more detail is provided. Several questions and concerns were outlined in the letter. The federal government said based on how the law currently stands, it cannot be assured that voters will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, etc. The attorney general has requested the assistance of the SC Elections Commissions to provide necessary information. The state has 60 days to provide additional information; the federal government has an additional 60 days for review. Those who oppose the law say it will unfairly target minorities who live in rural, impoverished areas. Supporters claim the new law will prevent voter fraud.