Differing Views on Election Reform
Feature Story by Celeste Berry - 1/14/2002
The Election Reform Information Project released a study on Monday, January 14, stating that local election officials are more willing to try federal proposals for improving elections than their state-level counterparts.
The results mirror the debate on Capitol Hill over election reform. A $2.6 billion overhaul passed by the House last month would give states leeway to develop their own standards for improving elections. In contrast, a $3.4 billion proposal introduced by a bipartisan group of senators sets certain reforms that states must enact. The provision is opposed by many state officials but supported by civil rights groups.
Senate Republican Leader Trent Lott (R-MS) had earlier stated that he and Majority Leader Tom Daschle (D-SD) have agreed that election reform will be the first issue the Senate will address this year. Lott said he believes that the Senate can pass the legislation two or three days after it reconvenes Jan. 23.
Once the Senate passes its version, as expected, House and Senate negotiators will have to decided on a compromise between the differing viewpoints.
The Election Reform Information Project's director, Doug Chapin, stated that much of the disagreement is simply due to money. The House bill delivers money to states in block grants. The Senate bill, which includes mandates, delivers money through grants, and localities can apply directly.
