Right now in the state of Arkansas poll workers ask potential voters for their identification when they show up to cast their ballot.
But the voter is not required by law to produce the ID.
That may change.
On Wednesday, the Arkansas state Senate approved a measure to require picture ID before casting a ballot. The vote was 23-12.
Opponents say the bill puts an unfair burden on the poor and elderly, despite a provision offering a free photo ID card for those without one.
One Democratic lawmaker even likened the voter ID bill to the poll tax of Jim Crow days.
Silly comparison.
We've said it many times before-having proper identification is not a burden-it's a necessity.
You have to show photo identification to board an airplane or train, If you leave the U.S. and want to get back in you better have your passport-a form of ID. If you write a check the merchant is going to want to make sure you are who you say you are. So that takes ID as well. Opening a bank or utility account without proper ID is impossible.
Should you wish to get around on something powered by an engine-say a car or motorcycle-you'll need a driver's license-photo ID-to do so. You need an ID to buy beer or tobacco. You even need an ID if you have a cold and want some types of decongestant.
None of that is a problem. But showing an ID to vote is some great barrier to democracy?
Nonsense.
Requiring a photo ID just makes good sense. The integrity of the ballot box is essential to our system of government. And if that means some citizens will have to actually make an effort to get a photo ID then so be it. It's not too much of a price to pay.
The bill now goes to a state House committee. Let's hope it passes on to the House and then the governor.
And then into law.