Research shows most people incorrectly assume they will still be able to use a regular driver’s license or state ID to register to vote. They incorrectly assume those documents alone prove their citizenship. The truth is those documents will not be acceptable for voter registration under the ACV proposal because they do not prove citizenship status.
The current summary is not written in a way that is accessible to everyday people, and it does not make it clear that voters will no longer be able to use their driver’s license or even a regular REAL ID to register to vote. Most people assume the same ID that can get you into a bar or onto an airplane would beenough to register to vote.
Suggested statement to the Board of State Canvassers:
To: Board of State Canvassers.
If the Americans for Citizens Voting ballot proposal is determined to have sufficient signatures to be placed on the 2026 General Election Ballot, please ensure that the 100 word summary specifically includes the following language to make sure voters understand the proposal.
Suggested language:
“Require proof of citizenship by showing acceptable documents including birth certificate and passport; regular driver’s license/state ID not acceptable.”
The reason for the suggested change is that voters are likely to incorrectly assume that they will still be able to use a regular driver’s license or state ID to register to vote. Voters incorrectly assume that these documents alone are acceptable proof of citizenship. However, under the ACV proposal these documents are not acceptable to register to vote.
Copy and paste the suggested letter into an email to MDOS-Canvassers@Michigan.gov
Deadline for submission of suggested language to staff: Monday August 10, 2026, 5:00 p.m.
Process for comments and Announcement from Board of State Canvassers: