Legislature(1997 - 1998)
1997-04-22 Senate Journal
Full Journal pdf1997-04-22 Senate Journal Page 1414 SB 183 SENATE BILL NO. 183 BY THE SENATE RULES COMMITTEE BY REQUEST OF THE GOVERNOR, entitled: An Act relating to voter qualification, disqualification, and registration; to voter registration officials; to election notices; to mail elections; to certain voting procedures; to the transportation of ballots; and to the official election pamphlet and certain immunity from liability regarding claims arising from publication of the official election pamphlet. was read the first time and referred to the State Affairs and Finance Committees. Fiscal note published today from Office of the Governor. Governors transmittal letter dated April 18: Dear President Miller: This bill I am transmitting amends the state election code to instill higher voter confidence in the election process and provide greater voter access to ensure maximum turnout at the polls. This legislation proposes to change the election process in Regional Educational Attendance Areas (REAA) and Coastal Resource Service Areas (CRSA) by conducting elections through the mail. This is expected to increase voter turnout, which has historically been low in these areas. In 1996, average turnout for REAA elections was 35 percent; for CRSA it was 40 percent. Under this bill, the Division of Elections will mail a ballot to all eligible voters in these areas about three weeks prior to the election. In the 1996 general election, 513 voters participated in the electoral process through absentee voting by personal representative. Fifteen percent of these voters ballots were rejected. This legislation will make the process less time consuming, less confusing and provide for better accountability. 1997-04-22 Senate Journal Page 1415 SB 183 In an attempt to increase voter participation and voter access, this legislation proposes extending the application deadline for absentee voting by fax to the day before an election. Current law requires the application to be received four days before an election. This change would expand the opportunity to voters who find themselves in extenuating circumstances. The legislation also proposes to change the name of the questioned ballot to special review ballot. Many voters have expressed concern and confusion over the term questioned. This new name more accurately reflects the true intent of the ballot. Other sections of the bill make technical changes to the election code regarding the official election pamphlet, public notice of elections, and transportation of ballots. Division of Elections staff will be available during the committee process on this bill to offer its full explanation and analysis. I urge your prompt consideration and passage of this bill. Sincerely, /s/ Tony Knowles Governor