Ohio voters face constitutional lock on photo ID requirement

Ohio voters will decide on Nov. 3 whether to permanently secure the photo ID rule in the state constitution.

Issue 3 is the only statewide item on the ballot. It proposes adding Section 5 to Article V of the Ohio Constitution.

The measure would codify the photo ID law passed in 2023 as HB 458. Voters already show photo ID when they vote in person. The new amendment would not change that daily practice immediately. It would make the rule harder to remove in the future. Any change or repeal would require another statewide vote.

The amendment specifies that in-person voters must present an unexpired photo ID. Acceptable documents include an Ohio driver’s license, Ohio state ID, U.S. passport, passport card, or military ID from the Ohio National Guard, U.S. military, or V.A. Mail and absentee voters remain exempt from this specific requirement. They can still verify their identity using the last four digits of their Social Security number.

Supporters include Secretary of State Frank LaRose and gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy. Ramaswamy pushed for the ballot initiative in May through an op-ed. The state legislature placed the measure on the ballot in June via Senate Joint Resolution 10. Democratic gubernatorial candidate Dr. Amy Acton also supports the amendment, breaking with her party. State Sen. Jerry Cirino, R-District 18, calls it a proper protection. He stated, “As this doesn’t change what is already law, as governor, I will support it.”

Opponents argue the measure is redundant and locks in outdated rules as identification goes digital. The Ohio Democratic Party Chair Kathleen Clyde and Secretary of State nominee Allison Russo lead the opposition. Rep. Terrence Upchurch, D-Cleveland, said, “You do not protect rights by restricting how somebody exercises that right.” Gary Daniels, legislative director for All Voting is Local Ohio, described the process as rushed and political. Jen Miller, director of League of Women Voters Ohio, warned that the lack of a guaranteed free ID raises concerns similar to a poll tax.

Gov. Mike DeWine vetoed a separate bill in June that would have required photo ID for mail ballots. If a majority of voters approve Issue 3, the amendment takes effect immediately when polls close.