Virginia Voter ID Rules: Concealed Gun Permit OK; Social Security Card Not OK

[The Straight Story]

Virginia Voter ID Rules: Concealed Gun Permit OK; Social Security Card Not OK

Republican lawmakers in Virginia have pushed through new restrictions on voter identifications acceptable at polling places, making the use of gun permits okay but forbidding Social Security cards.

The legislation would eliminate the use of utility bills, pay stubs, bank statements, government checks and Social Security cards as acceptable ID’s when voting.

Voters would still be able to show a voter identification card, concealed handgun permit, driver’s license and student ID card.

The bill was narrowly approved, with Republican Lieutenant Governor Bill Bolling casting the t-e-breaking vote. Democrats objected to the changes, arguing that they would make it more difficult for minorities, the elderly, students and the poor to cast ballots.

http://www.allgov.com/news/controversies/virginia-voter-id-rules-concealed-gun-permit-ok-social-security-card-not-ok-130208?news=847006

[dmallind]

1. They have photos on them I believe

Government issued IDs with photos are always the gold standard of ID checks.

If they don't (I am not in VA but every other CCW I have seen does), the very thorough background checks would be a good explanation too.

[Lizzie Poppet]

2. Makes sense.

A CCW permit is usually a photo ID with strong verification before issuance. A Social Security card has no photo, and thus isn't really an "ID card" at all.

[Hangingon]

3. I don't believe Texas will accept a CHL.

I don;t know why because it has a picture. SSAN card has no picture and states on it that it is not for identification. SSAN cards are frequently copied.