Following debate on the bill led by Congressman Vernon J. Ehlers, chairman of the Committee on House Administration, House members, by a 228-196 vote, passed the Federal Election Integrity Act of 2006 (H.R. 4844), The bill, which was introduced by Rep. Henry Hyde, R-Ill., now moves to the Senate for consideration.

“I am extremely pleased that the Federal Election Integrity Act of 2006 has passed the House of Representatives, and will now move on for consideration by our colleagues in the Senate,” said Ehlers, R-Grand Rapids. “Once implemented, the H.R. 4844 will put important safeguards in place that will enhance the integrity of our system and help restore confidence in it.”

Under the legislation, voters will be required to provide a photo ID in the 2008 federal elections. The bill also requires that by 2010, voters wishing to vote in a federal election must present a photo ID that certifies that they are American citizens. States also are required to set up programs to distribute the IDs and must provide them at no cost to indigent voters. The cost for providing indigent voters with free IDs will be reimbursed by the federal government.

“By putting in place procedures that ensure voting is limited to eligible citizens, we can encourage participation and increase turnout,” Ehlers said. “It has always been my objective that every citizen cast a vote, and that we ensure that illegally-cast ballots do not cancel out legal ones. Today’s passage of H.R. 4844 is an important step toward meeting that goal.”

CLICK HERE to read Congressman Ehlers’ statement on H.R. 4844.