Remember the debate over Pennsylvania’s voter ID law? It’s back. Commonwealth Court Judge Robert Simpson issued an order today scheduling trial for July 15 in the legal challenge that will decide the law’s ultimate fate. The order also promises to determine by March 21 whether Voter ID requirements should be enforced in the May primary. It was not enforced in the November election, but its long-term prospects remain in question.
In a statement, the American Civil Liberties Union, one of several groups representing the plaintiffs in the case, said it will file a motion asking the court to extend the preliminary injunction that put the law on hold until the case is decided. Simpson, in his order, said he will make a decision on whether the injunction should be extended, and for how long, by March 21.
“As of now, voter ID is in effect,” said Ron Ruman, spokesman for the Department of State. “The judge’s order last October specifically put the law on hold only for the November election. He will have to extend that injunction or issue a new order, or the law will go into effect for the May primary.”
Ruman said Gov. Tom Corbett’s administration believes it should remain in effect for the May primary.
The law, which passed in March with the support of Gov. Tom Corbett and Republican majorities in the state House and Senate, was criticized by opponents as an effort to depress voter turnout among Democrat-friendly groups such as the poor and minorities.
Full Article: Trial in voter ID lawsuit set for July – mcall.com.