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HB 2503

Modifies provisions for sworn statements in relation to voter identification

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Ann Kelley

Missouri keeps photo ID but expands provisional ballots and requires standardized ID certification at polls, while increasing free nondriver IDs and annual reporting.

Referred: Emerging Issues(H)
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Bill Summary · HB 2503

Summary of HB 2503 (2026) — Missouri

Purpose and intent

HB 2503 repeals and replaces a portion of Section 115.427 to modify how voter identification is verified and documented in Missouri elections. The bill maintains a photo ID requirement for voting but introduces specific procedures for provisional ballots and formalizes language changes on ballot envelopes. It aims to clarify and standardize the process by which voters establish identity, cast provisional ballots, and certify information at the polls.

Key provisions and changes

  • Acceptable forms of photo ID (Section 1):

    • Missouri-issued photo IDs remain required and include:
    • Nonexpired Missouri driver’s license
    • Nonexpired or nonexpiring Missouri nondriver’s license
    • A qualifying document meeting all of these:
    • Name matches voter registration (substantially)
    • Contains a photograph
    • Has an expiration date and is not expired, or expired after the most recent general election
    • Issued by the United States or Missouri
    • IDs issued by the Missouri National Guard, United States Armed Forces (including Space Force), or the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs with a photograph and no expiration date or non-expiring status are also accepted.

  • Provisional ballots for voters without ID (Section 2):

    • Voters at a polling place without approved ID may cast a provisional ballot.
    • The provisional ballot envelope must include an affidavit and be clearly marked.
    • The envelope collects name, address, birth date, and last four digits of SSN, with a certificate that the voter attests to their identity and eligibility.
    • Voter must either present acceptable ID later or have identity verified by comparing signatures on file.

  • Requirements to count a provisional ballot (Section 4):

    • The voter must either return during uniform polling hours with acceptable ID, or the election authority must verify identity by signature comparison.
    • The provisional ballot must otherwise qualify under Missouri law to be counted.

  • Notice and costs (Sections 5–7):

    • Secretary of State must publish notice of ID requirements on the state website.
    • Mandates related to providing one free nondriver’s license for voting purposes and waiving related fees for certain documents needed to obtain ID.
    • The Department of Revenue must report annually on the number of people obtaining nondriver IDs for voting, and denials with reasons.

  • Administrative details (Sections 8–11):

    • The precinct register top line will include a standardized “VOTER IDENTIFICATION CERTIFICATE” block for voters to certify identity and address.
    • The Secretary of State is authorized to promulgate rules to implement these provisions.
    • Provisions ensure accessibility if a voter cannot sign (prompting election judges to witness and record the mark).

Who is affected

  • Voters in Missouri who need to establish identity at the polls.
  • Voters without a current photo ID, by expanding access to free nondriver IDs and facilitating the acquisition of supporting documents.
  • Election authorities and precinct workers, who must implement the provisional ballot process and new certification language.
  • Missouri Department of Revenue and the Secretary of State, which will implement ID issuance, fees, and annual reporting.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • The bill requires rulemaking by the Secretary of State to effectuate the changes.
  • Annual reporting obligation begins with the director of revenue reporting by January 1 of each year.
  • Provisions apply to elections in which voter identification is required, with provisional ballots processed during standard voting hours (6:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m. on election day, as specified in the text).
  • Effective, enforceable changes hinge on promulgated rules and proper implementation by election authorities.

Notes: A minor wording change replaces “swear” with “attest and affirm” on the provisional ballot certification. The bill emphasizes accessibility to voting identification while preserving verification safeguards.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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