Laserfiche WebLink
7.1.D. - Page 15 <br /> In response to potential problems associated with vote-by-mail, Common Cause came up <br /> with a series of guidelines meant to mitigate or eliminate major issues (located in <br /> Appendix A). One central issue that critics of vote-by-mail cite is the increase in possible <br /> voter fraud. However, Common Cause argues that through proper signature matching <br /> techniques (cross-examining signatures with the envelope to the ones on each voter's <br /> registration file), this could be all but eliminated. Furthermore, for those jurisdictions <br /> which do not have voters' signatures scanned into statewide databases, it could be easily <br /> realized through the provisions of the Help America Vote Act, such as matching <br /> procedures with signatures on file at motor vehicle departments.21 <br /> Demographic Overview: <br /> Demographics can factor prominently into election administration, cost, registration <br /> figures and turnout. From previous studies we know that higher homeownership rates <br /> mean a more stable population and one that participates in elections in larger numbers. <br /> Income and education also have effects on turnout. Students are often not registered to <br /> vote at their university address, thus turnout in high student areas may be relatively low. <br /> Areas with high minority populations may equally suffer from low registration and <br /> turnout rates, sometimes due to low citizenship rates. This is more likely found in high <br /> Latino areas in California. <br /> 21Cressman,Derek. "Election Reform Brief-Getting it Straight for 2008:What We Know About Vote By Mail <br /> Elections and How to Conduct them Well."Common Cause.Common Cause Education Fund,Jan.2008.Web. 12 Nov. <br /> 2013.<http://www.commoncause.org/atf/cf/%7Bfb3c17e2-cddl-4df6-92be- <br /> bd4429893665%7D/WHAT%2OWE%20KNOW%20ABOUT%20VOTE%20BY%20MAII...PDF>. <br /> 9 <br />