Rep. Ferguson Introduces the Secure the Vote Act

COLUMBUS - Representative Ron Ferguson (R-Wintersville) this week introduced the Secure the Vote Act, which requires photo identification to cast absentee ballots by mail. With an increase in mail-in ballot voting, it is crucial to protect each vote and each Ohio voter by ensuring that a mail-in ballot is protected against fraud.

HB 577 will ensure the identity of the voter and increase the security of Ohio's elections.

"The foundation of our republic is fair elections, and we need to close the loophole which allows mail-in voting without photo identification," Ferguson said.

Currently, Ohio requires photo identification for in-person voting, but there is no photo identification requirements for those who vote by mail. Ohio would join North Carolina as states which require photo identification for absentee voting.

"Preventing voter fraud and ensuring one person, one vote is something every Ohioan should agree on, and my Secure the Vote Act will keep our elections safer and more secure," Ferguson added.

HB 577 now waits for a committee assignment.