Issue 3: The Voter Photo ID Amendment
This measure would amend the Ohio Constitution to require voters to present a specific form of government-issued photo identification to vote in person. If passed, it would make the state's existing photo ID law, which has been in effect since 2023, a permanent part of the constitution, making it much more difficult for future legislatures to change. The measure was placed on the ballot by the state's Republican-led legislature after passing with a 60 percent majority in both the House and Senate. Acceptable forms of ID are defined as an unexpired Ohio driver's license or state ID card, a U.S. passport, or a U.S. military ID.
What Supporters Say
Proponents of Issue 3 argue that it is a common-sense measure needed to secure the state's elections and boost public
confidence in the results. They contend that requiring a photo ID is a simple and effective way to prevent voter fraud. Supporters often point out that photo IDs are required for many other aspects of daily life, and that voting should be treated with at least the same level of security. By placing the requirement in the state constitution, they aim to ensure that these protections cannot be easily dismantled by future political shifts, framing it as a permanent safeguard for election integrity. The official arguments for the amendment are available for public review on the Ohio Secretary of State's website.
What Opponents Argue
Opponents argue that Issue 3 is a solution in search of a problem, stating that widespread voter fraud is not an issue in Ohio. They claim the measure is designed to make voting harder, particularly for the elderly, students, low-income individuals, and minority communities who are less likely to have the required forms of photo ID. Critics also note that Ohio already has a photo ID law, making this constitutional amendment redundant and an unnecessary barrier. The proposal also includes a provision allowing for an alternative verification method for those with a sincere religious objection to being photographed, but opponents worry this process could be cumbersome. They argue the focus should be on making voting more accessible, not less.
What Failed to Make the Ballot
While Issue 3 is the only statewide measure certified, several other high-profile citizen-led initiatives did not gather enough signatures to qualify for the 2026 ballot. These included proposals that would have prohibited the construction of large data centers, eliminated property taxes, ended qualified immunity for government employees, and established a new 'Voters' Bill of Rights'. Some of the groups behind these failed initiatives have already announced plans to try again for future elections. Additionally, voters in some cities like Columbus will face local ballot issues, including proposals to change how city council members are elected.
