Reply #18: Update-GOP Objections Derail Paper Ballot Bill for Now [View All]

[Melissa G]

GOP Objections Derail Paper Ballot Bill for Now
By Molly K. Hooper, CQ Staff
Republican opposition on Tuesday led to the defeat, at least for now, of a bill offering federal help to localities that don’t trust their electronic voting machines.

The bill (HR 5036) would authorize reimbursement for states and counties that convert to paper ballot voting machines before the November elections or need help paying for manual audits afterward.

Democrats put the bill on the part of Tuesday’s calendar used for non-controversial measures. It was brought up under suspension of the rules, which required a two-thirds vote for passage. But the final tally, 239-178, fell far short of the margin needed.

Numerous GOP House members opposed the bill because of its high price tag, said Vernon J. Ehlers of Michigan, ranking Republican on the House Administration Committee.

http://www.cqpolitics.com/wmspage.cfm?docid=news-000002704095#