Ohio has introduced a new photo ID requirement for mail voting, which will take effect ahead of the November 2027 election. The law, known as House Bill 472, was passed by Republican lawmakers and aims to increase election security. Voters will need to enclose a copy of their photo ID, such as a driver’s license, when mailing their ballot back. Alternatively, they can hand-deliver their ballot and show their photo ID to elections officials.

Exemptions and Concerns

Certain categories of voters, including those with sincere religious objections, military members, and people with severe medical conditions, will be exempt from the photo ID requirement. However, some election officials and voting-rights groups have raised concerns about the new law, citing potential obstacles for older and disabled voters. They argue that the requirement may lead to voter confusion and disenfranchisement.

The Ohio Secretary of State’s Office will set up an online portal for voters to request an absentee ballot and submit a photo of their face and photo ID. The bill also includes a provision for public libraries to provide free ID photocopies for voting use.

Republican lawmakers have described the new law as a common-sense security measure, while Democrats have called it unnecessary and potentially restrictive. The issue is likely to be contentious in the lead-up to the 2027 election.

Original reporting: Signal Cleveland — read the source article.