HB 49: ABSENTEE BALLOTING BY FAX Number 048 CHAIRMAN VEZEY, after a short recess, read the title of HB 49. He tabled HB 36 and 42 until later so testimony could be heard on HB 49. Number 047 REPRESENTATIVE MARTIN, PRIME SPONSOR of HB 49, stated Ms. Phyllis Taylor in Washington D. C. was on the line to testify in support of HB 49. Number 128 PHYLLIS TAYLOR, DIRECTOR, FEDERAL VOTING ASSISTANCE PROGRAM, OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF DEFENSE, spoke in support of HB 49 and discussed electronic application for absentee voting. She referenced her written testimony within the committee packet. She also referenced the "Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act" 99-40 HR 4393. Number 289 JOE KERWIN, CHIEF OF ELECTIONS, OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF STATE in Montana spoke in support of HB 49. He discussed the absentee ballot process. Number 306 REPRESENTATIVE ULMER stated concerns of voter fraud. MS. TAYLOR explained there was one central system to prevent fraud. She discussed provisions of checks and balances just the same as receiving it through the mail. Number 335 CHAIRMAN VEZEY discussed actions to prevent fraud. Number 344 MS. TAYLOR explained controls were in place which Alaska would utilize. Number 365 CHAIRMAN VEZEY asked if the results were satisfactory. MR. KERWIN explained the rules that were in place. It was not a secret ballot, signatures were compared to confirm the voter was the voter registered, he added. Number 379 CHAIRMAN VEZEY requested a copy of the regulations. Number 386 CHARLOT THICKSTUN, DIRECTOR, DIVISION OF ELECTIONS, asked what the voter turn out was for absentee ballots. MR. KERWIN stated eight people in Montana voted by fax. Number 440 MS. TAYLOR said there was a total of 4,000 application forms, 1,000 absentee, 600 other documents, and 140 voted fax ballots nationally. Number 484 REPRESENTATIVE MARTIN reminded the committee everyone had the right to vote. Even those on submarines! Number 521 CHAIRMAN VEZEY made reference to military persons who spend six months underwater. MS. TAYLOR stated the service was free. MS. THICKSTUN asked if there were federal monies available. Number 564 CHAIRMAN VEZEY clarified the only cost to the state would be in equipment, not service. Number 580 REPRESENTATIVE PETE KOTT agreed to be a subcommittee of one, by request of the Chair, and stated he would report back to the committee.