The bill introduced on February 27, 2025, amends the Code of West Virginia to enhance voter identification requirements by mandating that all valid identification documents presented for voting must include a photograph of the voter. It specifies that valid identification must be issued by the State of West Virginia or the U.S. Government, contain the voter's name, and include a photograph. The bill also clarifies that certain documents, such as driver's licenses and identification cards, must indicate satisfactory proof of U.S. citizenship, while non-citizen identification will not be accepted. Additionally, it removes previously acceptable forms of identification, such as Medicare and Social Security cards, and allows voters without valid identification to vote provisionally under specific conditions.

Moreover, the bill introduces a color-coding system for driver's licenses based on age groups and allows for the issuance of identification cards without photographs for individuals from recognized religious sects that oppose posing for photographs. It also includes provisions to ensure that identification documents for lawful noncitizen residents are clearly marked with the word "NON-CITIZEN" to prevent misuse for voter registration. The Secretary of State is tasked with educating voters about these new requirements and facilitating access to valid identification, ultimately aiming to strengthen the integrity of the voting process while accommodating the needs of various demographic groups.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 3-1-34, 17B-2-1