Budget-writers also declined to provide $3.4 million in required funding this year to unlock $4 million in federal Help America Vote Act funds. They're meant to help counties open more one-stop voting site and purchase voting machines and license to operate the machines.
In 2008, when HAVA money was available, there were 370 one-stop sites across the state.
"We will not come near that number this time. So, you will be seeing longer lines at one-stop sites (and) longer lines on Election day, and we just hope that voters have patience and understanding," Bartlett said.
Turnout is expected to be high in 2012, with both the presidential and gubernatorial races on the ballot. It's also expected to be more complex, with new voting maps that split up hundreds of state and congressional voting precincts. If those maps win federal approval, precinct officials may have to stock a half-dozen ballots or more, rather than one or two.
Circosta said all those new ballots will cost more to print, and more workers, not fewer, will be needed to make sure each voter gets the right one.
If I were calling shots in DC
I'd rescind this grant and give it to a state that isn't run by the Tea Party.
Do good. Be nice. Have fun.
Undoubtedly that's what will
Undoubtedly that's what will happen. The State of North Carolina loses again because of The Tea Party's domestic terrorism.
Speaking of
turning down funds for NC:
http://www.wral.com/news/state/nccapitol/story/10212379/