OHIO ELECTION LAWS Changes To Ohio's Election Laws Clear House
Reported by: Associated Press
Web Producer: Heath Harrison
Reported: Mar. 20, 2013 4:14 PM EDT
Updated: Mar. 20, 2013 4:31 PM EDT
Eyewitness News Photo
Columbus, Franklin County
, Ohio
Two bills that make election law changes in the presidential battleground state have cleared the Ohio House.
One measure is more contentious than the other. It would restrict the time groups have to collect extra signatures needed to ensure their ballot issues get before voters.
Under the proposal, groups couldn't gather additional signatures until the secretary of state notifies them whether their initial petitions have fallen short.
Current law already allows groups 10 days to file any added signatures once they get notification. But campaigns typically continue to collect signatures after they submit their initial petitions.
Supporters want groups to have a uniform number of days. Opponents say the bill erodes referendum and initiative rights.
The other bill would improve access to the polls for disabled voters.
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