Despite deal, lawmakers predict voter ID fight to endure

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) -- The Legislature is poised to tighten Missouri's voter ID requirements, but lawmakers see the issue as far from settled.

A Senate committee on Tuesday agreed to send the full chamber a bill requiring voters to show identification, and a constitutional amendment that would allow the photo ID measure to be enacted.

Democrats allowed the proposals to advance after about a month of stalling. Under the measures, people without photo ID could cast a ballot after signing a statement saying they don't have the required identification and can show some other form of identifying document.

Even if lawmakers approve the bill, it can't go into effect unless voters approve the constitutional amendment.

Republicans say they prefer a stricter system, but the current one would still allow officials to investigate voter fraud.