Panel reviewing rules on voter-ID law

LITTLE ROCK — An Arkansas panel is reviewing the rules for enforcing a new state law that will require voters to show photo identification at the polls before they can cast a ballot.

The state Board of Election Commissioners on Wednesday was scheduled to review the rules for enforcing the state's voter-ID law, which takes effect next year. Poll workers are currently required to ask for identification, but voters can still cast a ballot if they don't show ID.

The Republican-controlled Legislature enacted the voter ID law earlier this year when it overrode Democratic Gov. Mike Beebe's veto of the legislation.

The new law won't take effect until January or when funding is available for the state to provide free photo IDs required under the law, whichever is later.

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