A judge says Kansas can’t require people to show proof of U.S. citizenship when registering to vote for federal elections at motor vehicle offices.
U.S. District Judge Julie Robinson issued a preliminary injunction Tuesday in a lawsuit over Kansas’ proof-of-citizenship requirements. She put it on hold until May 31 so the state can appeal.
Robinson said that more than 18,000 eligible voters would be disenfranchised in the November federal election under the Kansas law.
The judge says Kansas’ requirements likely violate a provision in the National Voter Registration Act requiring only minimal information to determine voter eligibility.
Kansas Secretary of State Kris Kobach says he plans to appeal.
The American Civil Liberties Union says the ruling sends a signal to other states that may be considering similar registration requirements.