Steny Hoyer: “Twenty-three months ago, uncertainty gripped our great democracy. The United States of America, the wealthiest and most…”

“Twenty-three months ago, uncertainty gripped our great democracy. The United States of America, the wealthiest and most technologically advanced Nation in the world had failed, in my opinion, its most basic election duty: the duty to count every citizen's vote and count it accurately. The votes of an estimated 4 million to 6 million Americans went uncounted in November of 2000. This national disgrace cried out for comprehensive Federal reform. Thus, I am proud today to strongly support the historic, bipartisan conference report before us, the first Civil Rights Act of the 21st century. The Help America Vote Act of 2002 is the most comprehensive package of voting reforms since enactment of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. The conference report authorizes unprecedented Federal assistance: $3.9 billion over 3 years to help States improve and upgrade every aspect of their election systems. This funding will replace outdated voting equipment, train poll workers, educate voters, upgrade voter lists, and make polling places accessible for the disabled. Furthermore, this legislation prescribes an array of new voting rights and responsibilities.”