JUNE 22, 2004

Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land said that today’s certification of Michigan’s plan to comply with federal election standards is the result of a strong state and local partnership.

Land and Gov. Jennifer Granholm certified that Michigan’s plan to enhance its election process complies with Help America Vote Act (HAVA) standards. The certification caps a process that began in the spring of 2003, when Land appointed a 30-member advisory committee to help draft Michigan’s plan.

"HAVA opens new doors for voters and election officials," said Land, Michigan’s chief election officer. "It paves the way for exciting opportunities to upgrade our election process. Michigan is setting the pace in terms of meeting the objectives of HAVA. Our pioneering work in developing a Qualified Voter File already puts us ahead of most states. We also have more than 200 cities and townships that are moving ahead this year to replace their older voting systems with optical-scan technology.

"Thanks to strong support from the Legislature and our local partners, Michigan’s tradition of election innovation and integrity continues. Working together, we will make sure that every vote counts."

Land thanked everyone who participated in the development of Michigan’s plan. She singled out state Sen. Beverly Hammerstrom (R-Temperance), state Rep. Chris Ward (R-Brighton), and local clerks for their tireless efforts.

"One of our goals in developing this plan was to ensure that Michigan’s great diversity is fully represented," Land said. "The input and guidance that we received provides our document with regional balance and critical points of view. The depth of knowledge and vast experience of local election officials are reflected in the plan as well. Of course, the leadership of Senator Hammerstrom and Representative Ward made it possible for Michigan’s HAVA process to reach this point."

Certification of the plan makes Michigan eligible for nearly $80 million in federal support. The Legislature also has appropriated $2.3 million in matching state funds.

Most of these funds will be used to replace outdated voting equipment. Land announced in August 2003 that all of Michigan is moving to an optical-scan voting system. By 2006, every resident will use that technology because it is up-to-date and uniform.

Congress passed HAVA in 2002. It will improve access to polling places, replace old equipment, and eliminate barriers to voting that now confront the disability community and overseas military personnel.

Michigan’s HAVA plan is available on the Department of State Web site at www.Michigan.gov/sos.