National Disabilities Group Laments Photo ID Law

By Todd Hatton

Murray, KY – Advocates for the disabled have joined an effort to repeal a Tennessee law that requires photo identification in order to vote. Jim Dickson is vice president of organizing and civic engagement for the American Association of People with Disabilities. He spoke at a news conference in Nashville on Tuesday that was organized by the group Tennessee Citizen Action, a grass-roots organization based on consumer concerns. Dickson says there are "real difficulties" for the disabled to get the documentation needed to get a photo ID. He says at least 11 percent of people with disabilities do not have a current photo ID. Dickson said more than 350,000 disabled people voted in the 2008 election.