The bill amends the Code of West Virginia to strengthen voter identification requirements by mandating that all valid identifying documents presented for voting must include a photograph of the voter. It modifies existing provisions in sections 3-1-34 and 17B-2-1, stating that a valid identifying document is valid only if it contains the voter's name and a photograph. The bill clarifies that documents such as West Virginia driver's licenses and identification cards must be issued by the state or federal government and outlines conditions for accepting non-citizen identification. Additionally, it introduces provisions for provisional voting for individuals without valid identification, allowing them to affirm their identity through an affidavit, and emphasizes accessibility for voters with disabilities.

Moreover, the legislation seeks to distinguish between identification issued to citizens and lawful noncitizen residents by requiring different colors for licenses based on the driver's age and adding the designation "NV" for noncitizen legal residents. It also includes amendments regarding the issuance of driver's licenses, stating that individuals over 50 may not need a raised seal on their birth certificates, while those over 70 or on Social Security Disability can provide alternative identification without a birth certificate. The bill outlines penalties for violations, including fines and potential jail time, ultimately aiming to tighten voter identification processes while accommodating specific needs for certain age groups and noncitizen residents.

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