Mo. Senate panel considers paper-only ballots

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) -- A Missouri Senate panel is considering a measure to phase out electronic voting machines.

The committee heard testimony Monday from some former poll workers who say the machines now used in Missouri malfunction and miscount votes.

The legislation would require voters to use either paper ballots or certain ballot-marking devices to help people with disabilities. An electronic machine could still be used if it has an independent paper record of votes cast on the device.

The Missouri secretary of state's office opposed the measure, saying it may lead to longer lines at polling places and cost election officials money to purchase new machines.

The bill is sponsored by Republican Sen. Brian Nieves, of Washington. The committee did not vote on the proposal.

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The voting measure is SB375

Online:

Legislature: http://www.moga.mo.gov