State Rep. Jason Woolford today was joined by fellow House Republicans in calling on the Michigan Senate to take immediate action on legislation aimed at strengthening election security and restoring public confidence in Michigan elections.

Woolford, who has led House efforts to close loopholes in Michigan election law, said the Senate’s refusal to consider commonsense reforms is out of step with what Michigan residents expect from their government.

“Michigan voters deserve to know their elections are secure, transparent, and protected from abuse,” Woolford said. “Right now, our laws leave too many opportunities for manipulation and too many unanswered questions. The House has acted. The Senate needs to stop hiding from these issues and do its job.”

The press conference focused on legislation passed by the Michigan House that would strengthen voter verification standards, require proof of citizenship for voter registration, and prohibit foreign influence in Michigan elections.

Among the bills highlighted was HB 4765, sponsored by Woolford, which would require proof of U.S. citizenship when registering to vote in Michigan elections. The legislation passed the House earlier this term.

Woolford said requiring proof of citizenship and strengthening voter identification standards are reasonable safeguards already used in many aspects of everyday life.

“You need identification to board a plane, open a bank account, or cash a check,” Woolford said. “Protecting the integrity of our elections should be held to at least the same standard.”

Woolford said the Senate’s continued inaction sends the wrong message to Michigan residents concerned about election integrity.

“These reforms are about protecting every legal vote and making sure Michigan citizens can trust the outcome of our elections,” Woolford said. “The Senate should stop playing politics and start listening to the people they were elected to represent.”