The issue focused on voting technology that requires machines to identify voters before casting ballots. Democrats argue it undermines voter registration drives and disenfranchises minorities. Republicans claim it protects elections from hackers who try to manipulate votes in ways other states don't allow.

Republicans accused Democrats of rushing ahead with their proposal without knowing enough about its dangers. Democratic lawmakers acknowledged Tuesday they'd agreed on several provisions but sought additional studies before deciding whether to advance them. They released separate guidelines Wednesday urging tech companies to conduct experiments with expanding technology so election