In a pivotal meeting on May 29, 2025, the Louisiana Senate Transportation, Highways and Public Works Committee advanced significant amendments to House Bill 554, aimed at regulating non-citizen identification cards. The bill, championed by Representative McMakin, seeks to clarify the issuance of IDs and prevent unauthorized voter registration among non-citizens.

Key discussions centered on the necessity of implementing a restriction code on IDs for non-citizens, which would serve as a clear indicator that the holder is not eligible to vote. "This isn't making new law; it's ensuring that people don't accidentally commit a felony by trying to vote when they're not legally permitted to do so," McMakin stated, emphasizing the bill's role in preventing inadvertent legal violations.

The committee also adopted a set of technical amendments, including the removal of redundant penalty provisions, as clarified by the Motor Vehicle Commission. The amendments were passed without objection, signaling bipartisan support for the bill's intent to streamline ID processes while safeguarding electoral integrity.

The meeting highlighted concerns about the potential for non-citizens to inadvertently register to vote when applying for IDs. Attorney General Landry noted that over 40,000 temporary IDs had been issued, raising alarms about possible unauthorized voter registrations. "We want to educate those individuals about our law, that they are not allowed to register to vote or vote," he explained.

As the bill moves forward, it aims to enhance the vetting process for voter registration and ensure that non-citizens are informed of their voting rights. The anticipated outcome is a more secure and transparent identification system that aligns with Louisiana's electoral laws, ultimately protecting the integrity of the voting process.