Steny Hoyer: “Mr. Chairman, under the Help America Vote Act of 2002, of which I and the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Ney) were sponsors…”

“Mr. Chairman, under the Help America Vote Act of 2002, of which I and the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Ney) were sponsors, NIST is required to conduct several important research and technical projects connected to election reform. NIST is already busy working with the new Election Assistance Commission to advance HAVA's objectives. However, much more must be done if NIST is to fulfill its important role. As we learned in the controversial 2000 election, voting systems in many parts of the country are antiquated and obsolete. There continues to be controversy about various technologies. NIST can make a critical difference. As the 2004 election fast approaches, there are concerns in some quarters about the security and reliability of some voting systems. Properly directed, NIST will make a significant contribution, ensuring that new voting systems are rigorously tested, easy to use and maintain, and secure. I strongly urge NIST to follow the spirit and substance of the report language and give priority consideration to the Help America Vote Act in fiscal year 2005.”