Paper Ballots Bill Heads To Full Senate For Consideration

2/13/06 10AM UPDATE: SB 295, the paper ballots bill, was NOT heard by the Senate on Sunday. It is listed first on the Senate Floor calendar for hearing today, Monday.

From NM Senate Democrats:
SANTA FE – A measure mandating that paper ballots be used for all New Mexico voting systems is headed to the Senate Floor on Sunday for consideration. SB 295 Require Paper Ballots for all Voting Systems, receiving approval from both the Rules and Public Affairs committee, is sponsored by Senator Linda Lopez (D-Bernalillo).

“We have to restore the public trust in the election system, there have been a lot of issues out there about getting an accurate count of a persons vote and this is one way to take care if it.” says Senator Linda Lopez. “This is something that everyone can use and it is a system that is already being used in New Mexico. Currently there are 12 counties that already use optical scanners and paper ballots and eight more are prepared to use the paper ballot system.”

The effort to use a uniform paper ballot system in lieu of electronic touch screen systems will create greater consistency in the administration of elections. If passed, the legislation would require that paper ballots be used in all elections and recounts. It also requires county clerks to have systems in place by December 31, 2007. An amendment made during Friday night’s meeting of the Public Affairs Committee would require a competitive bid process for County Clerks as they implement the paper ballot systems instead of a sole source provider.

Senate Bill 295 is scheduled for “Third Reading”, meaning the New Mexico Senate could vote on the measure as early as Sunday. Click to contact Senators.