WICHITA, Kan. — A federal judge has sent back to federal elections officials a request by Kansas and Arizona to force modifications in a national voter registration form so the states can fully enforce proof-of-citizenship requirements, AP reports.
U.S. District Judge Eric Melgren on Friday sent the states’ lawsuit back to the U.S. Election Assistance Commission, with instructions that the commission has to have a final decision by Jan. 17.
The states want the federal form to include instructions requiring Kansas and Arizona residents to provide a birth certificate, passport or other proof of U.S. citizenship when registering to vote.
The Justice Department says such a change places an additional obstacle for eligible voters and would affect nationwide policy by setting a precedent.
