As Wisconsin’s Spring Election approaches on April 1st, voters will have the opportunity to weigh in on a key constitutional amendment that would make photographic identification a permanent requirement for voting. This amendment, which has passed two consecutive legislative sessions, now moves to the final stage—public approval at the ballot box.

The Process of Amending Wisconsin’s Constitution

Unlike regular legislation, amending Wisconsin’s constitution is a multi-year process designed to ensure broad consensus. A constitutional amendment must pass both the Senate and Assembly in one session, then be approved again in the next legislative session before going to a public vote. This ensures stability and allows public opinion to be considered over time.

What’s on the Ballot?

Voters will see the following question:

“Shall section 1m of article III of the constitution be created to require that voters present valid photographic identification verifying their identity in order to vote in any election, subject to exceptions which may be established by law?”

• A YES vote supports adding this requirement to the state constitution.
• A NO vote opposes making voter ID a constitutional requirement.

What You Need to Know About Voter ID

Wisconsin already requires voter identification, but adding it to the state constitution would make it more difficult to repeal or modify in the future. Supporters argue that this strengthens election integrity and prevents fraud, while opponents claim it may create barriers for certain voters.

Voters Overwhelming Support Voter ID

The latest Marquette Law School poll confirms that Wisconsin voters overwhelmingly support requiring photo identification at the ballot box, with 77% in favor and only 22% opposed. This aligns with over a decade of polling data showing strong and consistent public backing for voter ID laws, with support never dipping below 63% since 2012.

Despite this widespread approval, Supreme Court Candidate Susan Crawford has relentlessly fought to overturn Wisconsin’s voter ID law, labeling it “draconian” and working to dismantle the requirement in court. While Crawford was successful in lower courts, ultimately the Wisconsin Supreme Court ruled voter ID as constitutional. Her opponent Brad Schimel has reminded voters he defended voter ID as Wisconsin’s Attorney General. 

How to obtain a voter ID

For those without a valid ID, Wisconsin provides free state-issued ID cards for voting. Even if you lack required documentation, you can complete additional paperwork at the DMV to receive an ID. If applying close to Election Day, the DMV will expedite the process to ensure you can vote.

Voters looking for more information on what’s on their ballot can visit myvote.wi.gov or call the Voter ID Hotline at (844) 588-1069.