State Republicans file initiative requiring proof of citizenship to vote

BELLEVUE, Wash. — Tighter controls on who gets to vote are part of a new initiative that could be introduced to the Washington state legislature.

If it becomes law, people would be required to show documentation that they are citizens to remain on voter registration lists.

Initiative Measure No. IL26-126 is sponsored by Rep. Jim Walsh, R-Aberdeen, the Chairman of the Washington State Republican Party. Walsh and others want to strengthen the integrity of the state’s voter database by requiring verification of citizenship for voter registration.

Under the initiative, county auditors would determine whether each person on the voter list has demonstrated proof of citizenship. Those who have not will be notified to produce this documentation or be dropped from the lists.

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