GOP Congress members introduce bill allowing states to verify a voter's citizenship status

June 18, 2013

Four Republican members of Arizona’s congressional delegation have introduced a bill that would allow states to verify a voter’s citizenship status. 

Ron Barber Tucson Congressman Ron Barber (KJZZ file photo )

It is a reaction to this week’s U.S. Supreme Court ruling that found Arizona cannot make people prove their citizenship when using a federal form to register. 

Democratic Congressman Ron Barber of Tucson said he is still reviewing the proposal but he does not support the face value of the bill.

“If any legislation comes along that is going to impair the ability of people to get to the polls who are legally entitled to be registered voters then I would be concerned about it.  I think there’s been too much activity around the country to suppress the vote," Barber said.

In 2004, Arizona voters approved a measure that requires anyone who wants to participate in elections to show a driver’s license, birth certificate or passport. 

The bill introduced by Republicans Matt Salmon, Trent Franks, David Schweikert and Paul Gosar would give all states authority to require citizenship documents to register to vote.