Coventry Rep. Robert Nardolillo wants Congress to amend a federal law for stricter voter registration. He plans on introducing a resolution at the House Tuesday asking for an amendment to the Motor Voter Act that would allow states to ask for proof of citizenship when people register to vote.
In a statement, the Republican lawmaker said eight voting irregularities that took place in Cranston last November give him cause for concern.
“In this day and age, we should have solid measures in place to prevent voter fraud,” said Nardolillo. “What we see happening in Cranston, means it surely could have happened in other communities.”
Steven Brown is the executive director of the ACLU of Rhode Island. He says he’s not sure of how much traction Nardillo’s resolution would get.
“There are a number of cases, including one from the U.S. Supreme Court itself suggesting that is simply is not proper to demand this type of documentation from people seeking their exercise their right to vote,” said Brown.
Brown adds stricter voter laws often disenfranchise many eligible voters by making it harder to vote. Brown says he’s hopeful the resolution won’t pass because of the constitutional hurdles it would have to overcome.
“There are very serious legal issues raised if Congress were to follow through and impose significant new restrictions on how somebody can register to vote.”
Brown adds if Congress does try to amend the Motor Voter Act the ACLU would be ready to step in.
