STATEHOUSE (Feb. 5, 2024) – The Indiana House of Representatives advanced State Rep. Tim Wesco's (R-Osceola) bill to increase election security by verifying voter registration records for first-time voters.
Wesco said his legislation would boost Indiana's election integrity by implementing a simple step to verify voters are U.S. citizens. The bill would require new voters registering in-person to provide photo identification and proof of residency when registering to vote in person at registration agencies.
"Election security is and always should be a top priority in our state," said Wesco, chair of the House Elections and Apportionment Committee. "Verifying voting records will ensure that every vote cast is legitimate and makes sure our elections are held to a high standard."
Wesco said his bill would provide the ability to crosscheck addresses from the Statewide Voter Registration System with the Bureau of Motor Vehicles' list of temporary credentials to make sure citizens are verified and eligible to vote. The bill would also identify noncitizens who are registered incorrectly.
"The right to vote is one of the main principles of a well-run democracy," Wesco said. "This bill is just one more step that can ensure a safe and secure election process."
Representatives from Indiana's Election Commission, the Indiana Secretary of State's Office and three county clerks testified in support of the legislation during committee.
House Bill 1264 now heads to the Senate for further consideration. For more information, or to watch session and committees live, visit iga.in.gov.
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State Rep. Tim Wesco (R-Osceola) represents House District 21,
which includes portions of Elkhart and St. Joseph counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
