MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — A constitutional amendment to require a photo ID to vote in Minnesota is trailing slightly in early returns.

If the amendment is approved, all voters would have to present valid photo identification in order to get a ballot.

The early returns could reflect an outsized influence from Hennepin and Ramsey counties, which were reporting returns earlier than many greater Minnesota counties.

Backers of the amendment say it’s needed to ensure the integrity of future elections. But its critics say it would make it harder for certain groups of people to vote, including the poor, elderly and minorities.

(© Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)