LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Supporters and opponents of a Nebraska voter identification bill packed a public hearing in a fierce debate over the measure.
The Legislature's Government, Military and Veterans Affairs Committee heard heated arguments Friday on a bill by Senator Tyson Larson of O'Neill. The legislation would require voters to show a driver's license or state identification card at a polling place.
Advocates say the bill prevents voter fraud and non-citizens from voting, although voter fraud is exceedingly rare in Nebraska.
Opponents call the bill biased, racist and oppressive, saying it places an unconstitutional burden on voters.
ACLU of Nebraska legal director Amy Miller says voter fraud is almost non-existent in Nebraska, and warned the committee that her group would sue the state and win if the bill becomes law.
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