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Secretary of State Sam Reed announces election changes By
The Associated Press 5/31/03 “Most people never thought about the election process until a snafu in Florida brought the 2000 presidential election to a grinding halt,” Reed said. “We do not believe the Florida fiasco could have or would have ever transpired in Washington. But the legislation that resulted from that contest is meaningful and will improve the voting process for citizens with disabilities.” The money stems from the Help America Vote Act, passed by Congress last year. Reed called the bill the most significant change to the voting process since every American was ensured the right to participate in 1965. “For the first time in history, the federal government is helping finance the election process,” Reed said. Among the improvements will be more private voting for people with disabilities. “There are citizens in our state who will soon vote a truly secret ballot for the first time,” Reed said. “People who are visually impaired used to have to rely on a family or friend to guide them through the ballot. Not anymore.” The Touch screen voting equipment prompts voters through the ballot much like an ATM. The visually impaired can wear headphones for audio prompts on each race and measure. Also, the state has begun work on a statewide voter registration database to create one centralized list of registered voters in Washington. “This centralized list will reduce the opportunity for voter fraud,” said Reed. “It will be easier for elections officials to track voters who move from county to county.” Reed’s office plans take public comment on the plan before submitting the final version to the Federal Election Commission for approval. |