In regional news, a controversial Texas law is getting another look from a federal court, reports The Texas Tribune.The case involves a law requiring voters to show a photo ID at the polling place. Six months ago a three-judge appeals court panel ruled the law violated the Voting Rights Act. Now the full U.S. 5th Circuit Court of Appeals plans to take up the case.
Supporters say the legislation is a common sense measure that helps secure the voting process. Critics insist the law is a measure meant to discriminate against Hispanic and African-American voters and boost Republican showings at the polls.
While the case winds its way through the courts, the law’s provisions are in effect and currently governing elections in Texas. Even if the case continues to the Supreme Court, the 5th circuit’s judgment could be the final word in the case. That’s because, in the wake of Antonin Scalia’s death, the case could result in a 4-4 tie before the current Supreme Court.