Letter: Urge lawmakers to vote no on Voter ID

The Voting Rights Act was signed into law more than 50 years ago. Its intention was to overcome legal barriers at state and local levels that prevented African-Americans from exercising their franchise under the 19th Amendment. Democracy works best when everyone is allowed to participate.

The Iowa Legislature is considering a bill requiring Voter IDs. Student IDs and out-of-state driver's licenses will not be allowed. Low-income, minorities, the elderly and women will be the hardest hit by discouraging voting participation.

The Iowa State Association of Auditors opposes this legislation. Secretary of State Paul Pate in October 2016 said, 'As the state's Commissioner of Elections, I can assure you Iowa's elections are not rigged.” Iowa is ranked 3rd in the country for voting integrity.

We have a budget shortfall of more than $100 million. Why would we divert millions to solving a problem that does not exist?

Urge your representatives and senators to vote no on requiring Voter IDs.

Kate Rose

Mount Vernon