MADISON, Wis. (AP) -- A federal judge is criticizing the state for not telling people clearly how they can obtain voting credentials if they lack documents to obtain photo ID.
One Wisconsin Institute (OWI) wants U.S. District Judge James Peterson to block Wisconsin's voter ID law after media reports showed Division of Motor Vehicles workers have given inaccurate information to people looking to obtain alternative voting credentials without presenting birth certificates to get free photo IDs.
Peterson began a hearing Wednesday by saying the state clearly has fallen short of its obligations to administer the credentials and the chances of getting misinformation is very high.
Peterson also told state attorneys that he's disturbed that upgraded training began only after OWI filed its request. He says the state has undertaken only minimal efforts unless compelled by litigation.
The judge questioned, however, whether he has the authority to block the voter ID law, noting the 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has upheld the law.
