June 22, 2004
June 22, 2004
LANSING – Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today paved the way for Michigan to receive its full share of federal funding for improving election processes and voting systems in Michigan by certifying Michigan’s plan for compliance with the federal Help America Vote Act of 2002 (HAVA).
The certification that Granholm signed, after consultation with Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land, confirms that Michigan has adopted a state plan for compliance with HAVA consistent with requirements under federal law. With certification in place, Michigan is now eligible to receive $79 million in federal funding that will be used to upgrade election equipment to a state-wide standard of optical scan voting systems for every community in Michigan in time for the 2006 elections.
"Michigan is now positioned to take full advantage of the new federal reforms under HAVA as well as providing critical resources for the Secretary of State and local election officials," Granholm said. "In addition to assuring Michigan’s full compliance with HAVA, I will continue to work to make it easier for Michigan’s citizens to vote and to make sure every vote counts. We must do everything we can to preserve democracy’s most sacred right, the right to vote."
In addition to upgrading election equipment to a state-wide standard of optical scan voting systems, funds will also be allocated toward the purchase of disability-compliant systems. The migration toward a statewide standard of optical scan voting systems has already begun and will be fully completed by the 2006 elections. Optical scan voting systems provide significant advantages, including the ability to provide a document trail, protecting voters against ballot spoilage and assuring equal protection for every voter. Security concerns with other electronic voting systems are also avoided.
Congress enacted HAVA in 2002 to encourage greater voter participation while maintaining the integrity of the election process by improving access to the polling place, replacing outdated equipment, and making it easier for persons with disabilities and persons overseas to vote. To help implement these improvements, HAVA provides federal funding that allows state and local governments to upgrade election processes, systems, and equipment.
Michigan will use its share of the federal funding to help state and local election officials meet new federal election administration requirements under HAVA. The funding provides unprecedented opportunities for the Department of State to increase the efficiency, accuracy, and convenience of administering and conducting elections. Equally important, assistance under HAVA will enable better access to the State’s election system for all voters, including voters with disabilities.
Michigan’s plan for HAVA compliance was developed by the Secretary of State in a manner consistent with federal law. To be eligible for these funds, Granholm certified that the State of Michigan has appropriated state matching dollars. Of the $79 million for which Michigan is eligible, the Legislature has appropriated $45.3 million in federal funds and $2.3 million in state dollars. In future years, the Legislature will need to appropriate $1.7 million in state dollars to receive an estimated $33 million in additional federal funds already set aside for Michigan.
The Michigan Department of State, Bureau of Elections will manage all initiatives using these federal funds and will be responsible for establishing expenditures, funding levels, program controls, and outcomes, consistent with state and federal law.
Granholm’s certification was filed today with the Federal Election Assistance Commission.
