The voter registration lawsuit filed by Paul Davis (LJW, 10/1/15) raises many questions.

Why shouldn’t the federal government require proof of citizenship to be eligible to vote? Why did Davis vote for proof of citizenship in 2011 and then wait four years to claim it is unconstitutional? Why should the state retain applications more than 90 days for applicants who failed to provide required documentation, when they can always reapply?

Was the client in this case aware of registration requirements seven months ago? During those seven months, did he attempt to obtain a birth certificate, available in Kansas within 10 days for $15.00 with five ways to register (in person, by phone, on the internet, or by regular mail or priority mail)? Did his parents offer their help to obtain his birth certificate?

If the client/student wanted to go to Mexico for spring break or study abroad, how long do you think it would take him to obtain his birth certificate in order to obtain a U. S. passport? Is voting less important? Would Davis sue the U. S. State Department over proof of citizenship to obtain a passport?

And regarding a related story, do college students who grew up on the Internet and qualified for admission to a college really need a “course” in how to register to vote? How hard is it to complete the application form and submit your driver’s license and birth certificate?

Voter rights are a serious matter but voter responsibilities should be equally important.