Use signature ID to prevent fraud

I became a poll worker in 1999, and I read with interest the article (The Tennessean, Aug. 27) regarding the recent lawsuit over the new photo ID law for voters, which went into effect in Tennessee last year. Other states have also adopted similar laws.

The promoters of these new photo ID laws claim to have the intention of preventing voter fraud at the ballot box, and everyone agrees that voter fraud must always be addressed, even though it is extremely rare. However, as I listen to the public debate, I notice that important information is omitted. The fact is, we have always had a highly effective (and free) system for voter ID: it is the signature of the voter. Basically, it works as follows: Voter signatures from registration applications are kept on file for reference. When a voter wishes to cast a ballot, he or she writes a fresh signature in the presence of the poll workers on duty, who then compare it with the one on file. This is a time tested process which does not waste public or private time and money, as does the new photo ID requirement.

In my experience, I’ve never seen or heard of any type of voter fraud that a photo ID would prevent more effectively than a signature ID. I support repealing the wasteful photo ID laws everywhere because they are a costly solution without a problem.

HAZEL THORNTON