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October 27, 2003
Contact: Anne Martens
503-986-1502
Bradbury Commends Oregon
Senators' Support of HAVA
Senators Ron Wyden and Gordon Smith Vote to Increase HAVA Funds to $1.5 Billion
SALEM - Secretary of State Bill Bradbury applauds Oregon Senators Ron Wyden and Gordon Smith for their support of the Dodd-McConnell amendment to the Transportation, Treasury and Independent Agencies Appropriations Act. The amendment passed by a vote of 63 to 31, with both of Oregon's Senators voting in favor. The amendment increases federal funding for implementation of the Help America Vote Act by $1 billion over the President's request, to $1.5 billion for the 2004 fiscal year.
The Help America Vote Act (HAVA), enacted in 2002, requires a series of improvements in the election system, which states must implement regardless of whether federal funds are available. Funding from the 2003 fiscal year has already ensured that punch card ballots will be replaced by optical scan systems in all Oregon counties by early next year.
"The additional funding will allow us in Oregon to move forward with development of a centralized voter registration system and the purchase of electronic voting equipment to give disabled Oregonians the opportunity to participate in the electoral process with privacy and independence," said Bradbury. "In these very difficult budgetary times for the states, we need federal resources to make that happen. Thank you for supporting me in implementing this important commitment to Oregon's voters."
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