Missourians must have faith in our system of elections so that voters believe in the legitimacy of those elected to public office or votes cast on propositions. Far too often, the Missouri General Assembly and the United State Congress make changes in election laws without providing proper funding to election officials to carry out such mandates. The result is administrative problems that can lead to inaccurate voter lists, long lines at polling stations and voter confusion. It is imperative that legislators recognize the impact of changes in election laws on the administration of elections. Conducting free and fair elections and serving the voter is the mission of every election authority.
Election officials are always on the front line of proposing positive changes to our voting process.
The State of Missouri should pay its current obligations to election authorities for transactions submitted since August 28, 2000. State should provide continued funding of transaction fees Such funds will provide counties with funds to update their equipment. State should re-instate funding of Technology Fund Such funds will allow the Secretary of State to replace outdated equipment originally purchased for the state voter registration system. The Secretary of State should urge the legislature to provide proper funding for the conduct of elections and the implementation of any legislative mandates.