SEPTEMBER 28, 2005

Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land is encouraging public comment on the revised State Plan drafted in compliance with the Help America Vote Act (HAVA).

The public comment deadline is 5 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 27. The plan, required under HAVA and developed with input from an advisory committee appointed by Land, sets a course of action for enhancing Michigan's election process.

The federal funding available under HAVA allows Michigan to replace outdated voting equipment, ensure access for voters with disabilities and conduct voter education programs.

"This is an important step in our ongoing initiative to bring greater uniformity, accessibility and inclusiveness to Michigan's elections," said Land, the state's chief election officer. "I invite all who are interested to review and comment on this revised plan. Remember that your vote is your voice. Please join us as we work together to make sure that every voice is heard."

The plan is being modified to reflect the current costs of programs and initiatives outlined in the original version. Updating the document also lets the state take advantage of technologies and programs that have become available since the original plan's release.

The Secretary of State's State Plan Advisory Committee met Tuesday to review the revisions. The plan is being posted for 30 days on the Department of State Web site at www.Michigan.gov/sos. A printed copy also will be forwarded to Michigan's 83 county clerks.

When responding, residents are asked to clearly identify the sections on which they are commenting by page number.

Comments may be e-mailed to the department at elections@michigan.gov. Comments sent by U.S. mail should be addressed to the Michigan Department of State, Bureau of Elections, Attn: HAVA Plan, P.O. Box 20126, Lansing, MI 48901-0726.

Anyone with questions may call the Bureau of Elections at (517) 373-2540.

After the public comment period, the plan will be revised as necessary and submitted to Washington, D.C., for publication in the Federal Register for 30 days.

For more information about HAVA and other Department of State programs and initiatives, visit www.Michigan.gov/sos.

Related Link
> Michigan.gov/HAVA