The Oklahoma U.S. House delegation (except Rep. Dan Boren) voted to pass the "Federal Election Integrity Act of 2006." The measure requires that proof of citizenship, a government-issued photo ID, be presented in order to vote in federal elections. Congressman Istook said after the vote: "You need a government ID just to cash a check at the local supermarket," said Istook. "We need the same common-sense protection for the all-important right to vote. Only American citizens can legally vote, but that right isn't being protected as it should be." H.R. 4844, the Federal Election Integrity Act of 2006, confirms current requirements that only citizens vote in U.S. elections by providing that a recognized, government-issued photo ID be presented in order to vote. An important part of this bill is that states must provide the necessary photo ID free of charge to those who cannot afford to pay for them. The bill also authorizes funds to reimburse states for the cost of these programs. Currently, Oklahoma requires "proof of legal presence" in order to obtain a drivers license or state ID. This proof can include immigration documents such as a foreign passport or an alien registration card ( a.k.a. "green card"). To vote, on the other hand, Oklahoma does not require any proof of citizenship. In keeping with the Help America Vote Act, registration by mail must include a copy of some form of ID. According to Oklahoma requirements available on the Oklahoma State Election Board website, even a copy of a utility bill with a name and address on it is sufficient to meet this requirement. The Federal Election Integrity Act of 2006 will close this loophole and require photo ID proof of citizenship from all voters in federal elections. Posted at 9/21/2006 10:30:00 AM