Churches Helping Seniors with Voter IDs

Memphis, Tn - Some Memphis Seniors are finding it harder to vote because of a new state law. This March, will be the first election when a photo ID is required to cast a ballot.

This weekend, some churches are making it easier. Many seniors, who don't have a photo ID, also don't drive. On Saturday, several churches will take you to the driver's license center to get a photo ID.

Shelby County Commissioner Henri Brooks says the law has been a big problem for some elderly people, "I've had people call me, 92 or 93, and I ask them, do you have a driver's license? And they will say, baby no, I haven't driven in 30 years."

So, Shelby County is partnering with 11 area churches who will transport people to the driver license center to get a photo id.

If you call ahead, they'll pick you up, but you'll need to bring identification.

Brooks says your social security card is not enough. She says you'll need your birth certificate or a statement of benefits from the Social Security Administration. That costs $12.

"I have an issue with that because that says to me, you've got to pay to get documentation to vote. That's a violation of the 1965 Voter's Rights Act. It goes back to what? The poll tax."

Churches will transport people to the DMV the on Saturday, February 4 and Saturday, March 3.

Brooks is hoping the hassle won't deter people from voting, "It's going to suppress the vote. It's requiring too many steps for people to vote which is totally unnecessary."

Senator Brian Kelsey of Germantown was a co-sponsor of the bill that changed the voter ID law. He says it's designed to prevent fraudulent voting. You can call 1-877-850-4959 for more information.

Please contact the churches listed to make arrangements for transportation to the Tennessee Drivers License Centers located @ 6340 Summer Avenue or 3200 Shelby Drive on Saturday, February 4 and Saturday March 3, 2012 from 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

The new law requiring a government-issued photo ID to vote applies only to those voting at polling places. It does not apply to those casting absentee ballots under state law, including those age 65 or older who wish to vote absentee or those voting at licensed nursing homes.