House Dems unveil voting, election reforms

After a presidential election where tens of thousands of Virginia voters experienced long lines and several hour long delays at the polls, Democrats in the House of Delegates unveiled a wide array of election reforms at a morning press conference.

The election reform package included instituting an Early Vote period, extending voting hours to 8 p.m., restoring voting rights, and a host of other measures to increase access to the ballot box.

Del. Onzlee Ware (D-Roanoke) presented legislation to establish an Early Vote period.  “This is not a Democratic or Republican issue.  This is an American issue.  This body must have a conscience, and work to increase access to the ballot box for all qualified Virginia citizens,” said Delegate Ware.  “Dozens of states across the country have established early voting in their elections.  In Virginia, we have an archaic voting system, and now is the time to make reforms.”

Del. Eileen Filler-Corn (D- Springfield) spoke about extending voting hours to 8pm.  “We need to remove obstacles to make voting easier for all qualified Virginia voters. Nobody should not have to choose between their jobs, taking care of their kids and participating in our democracy,” said Delegate Filler-Corn. “Extending voting hours to 8pm will give individuals more flexibility and the breathing room they need to cast their ballot.”

Del. Rosalyn Dance (D-Petersburg) concluded the press conference by discussing restoring voting rights.  “It is only fitting that after the passing of Senator Yvonne Miller, who was a leader on the restoration of voting rights, that we move forward on this critical civil rights issue. I commend Governor McDonnell for putting his full support behind restoring voting rights to those who have fully completed the terms of their sentence,” stated Delegate Dance.  “We all have a stake in wanting to see people who have paid their debt to society to become more responsible, engaged citizens.  I look forward to working with my Democratic and Republican colleagues, and the Governor’s Office to make progress on this issue.”