ST. PAUL  (AP) - Some Republican lawmakers say they are open to considering a technology-driven alternative to a proposed constitutional amendment to require voters to bring photo IDs to the polls.

A bill circulating would create an "electronic poll book" voter verification system through a new law rather than altering Minnesota's constitution. It's too soon to tell if GOP leaders would drop their ballot push if the legislation were adopted.

Democratic Secretary of State Mark Ritchie sees it as less expensive than requiring voters to present a state-issued ID card. Election officials would look up existing drivers' license photos or to take new photos of each voter at polling places.

Republican Sen. John Howe says he believes the option would help achieve the goal of proper voter identification.

(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved)

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