July 9, 2002

Secretary of State Candice S. Miller is applauding a report out this week from the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) that gives Michigan the highest grade among the 50 states when it comes to election reform.

"We are committed to making certain that every vote counts in Michigan and we believe our commitment is reflected in the NAACP’s report on election reform,” Secretary Miller said today.  “Michigan is on the leading edge of election administration.  Michigan voters have more access to information about the elections process than voters in other states, local election officials in Michigan have one of the strongest technical support systems in the nation and our Qualified Voter File is second to none.

”Michigan residents can take pride in the fact we have been proactive in improving and ensuring the integrity of elections in Michigan,” Secretary Miller added.  “The fact that the NAACP has given us the highest grade in the nation says it all.”

The NAACP 2001 Election Reform Report Card was based on a survey to all 50 states on a variety of issues including voter registration and education programs, on-site technical assistance for training poll workers, support for on-demand absentee voting, allowing for a provisional ballot, enacting policies that ensure equal access to the polls, and audited registration and balloting procedures to make sure the process is both fair and effective.

A number of Internet initiatives have been implemented to make certain that every vote counts, including a Citizens’ Guide to Voting Systems that explains how to use voting systems in various cities and townships around the state, and an Electronic Voter Guide that provides information about state candidates and ballot proposals.

Among the other Michigan election programs praised by the NAACP include:

• Affidavit ballots that establish a process for voters whose name is not on the precinct poll list but who registered before the close of registration.  Once an affidavit is signed and a new voter registration application is completed, the voter is issued a ballot that counts on election day.
• A training video for all election officials charged with training election-day workers on helping disabled voters.
• The Secretary of State’s support for unrestricted absentee balloting.
• A reminder postcard to 18-year-olds encouraging them to register and vote.

In addition to the NAACP report, Michigan has been recognized by reports on election reform issued by CALTECH/MIT and the Commission on Federal Election Reform chaired by former Presidents Ford and Carter for developing the Qualified Voter File.