The U.S. Supreme Court on Thursday cleared the way for New Hampshire to ban the use of student identification cards as a form of voter ID in the upcoming midterm elections.
Under the new ruling, the state will no longer accept college or university ID cards as a valid proof of identity when voters cast ballots. The ban applies to all voters who would otherwise use a student ID to verify their eligibility at polling places.
New Hampshire officials say the decision removes a federal restriction that had previously limited the state’s ability to enforce a stricter ID requirement. The ban will take effect for the November midterm election cycle.
Student ID voting has been a point of contention in several states, with proponents arguing it helps college students register and vote, while opponents claim it can be a loophole for fraud. The Supreme Court’s ruling allows New Hampshire to pursue its policy without federal interference.
While the ruling is specific to New Hampshire, it may influence other states considering similar measures. The decision comes as the country prepares for the 2024 midterm elections.
<small>Source: PBS NewsHour — read the original story there.</small>