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StarTribune - Print Page Page 2 of 2 "There is no single database that tells us of people who are currently ineligible to vote because of felony convictions," Jackson said. Carlson also said he would like to debate proponents around the state, because he believes the amendment makes m� unnecessary changes to an election system that is widely admired. "Minnesota is looked upon nationally as the state for clean and open elections," he said. "We are the envy of this natior These people have been painting a picture that is dark and getting darker by the minute." Kiffmeyer, however, maintained that an ID requirement is needed to determine if there is a problem with voters using th identities of others. "Without an ID, how do you know?" she said. "Why do we have an election system thaYs based on and prosecute, and meantime the ballot is cast and counted?" "My motive and my mission is about the integrity of the election system," Kiffmeyer added. "Through that process, I beli we can increase voter turnout." The potential effect on voter turnout also is a key concern of amendment foes who contend it could discourage or prevE some groups from voting if they find getting a proper ID difficult or impossible. "Elderly people are in a panic about this," Carlson said. "Students are in a panic." McGrath responded that no legitimate voter would be denied a ballot through the photo ID requirement. The photo ID ballot question will ask voters: "Shall the Minnesota Constitution be amended to require all voters to presE valid photo identification to vote and to require the state to provide free identification to eligible voters, effective July 1, : The underlying amendment, which will not appear on the ballot, also sets up a new system of two-step provisional ballc for those without the required ID, with the details to be determined by the 2013 Legislature. And it requires all voters, including those not voting in person, to submit to "substantially equivalent identity and eligibility verification." The issue will appear on the ballot as a proposed amendment to the state Constitution, along with an amendment that � permanently ban same-sex marriage. The marriage amendment will the topic of a similar forum on Oct. 23 at the MapIE Community Center. Jim Ragsdale • 651-925-5042 OO 2011 Star Tribune http://www.startribune.com/printarticle/?id=173423181 10/12/2012