Hours of polling places to be standardized across state

Governor Jim Doyle today signed Assembly Bill 64, which requires all polling locations in Wisconsin to stay open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Under current law, polls open at different hours depending on the city class. This bill will streamline the election process and maximize the amount of time voters have to cast their ballots. The Governor called for this proposal as part of his comprehensive Election Reform Package.

"This bill was an important part of my Election Reform Package, and will help reduce confusion about voting hours and maximize the amount of time people will have to cast their vote," Governor Doyle said. "I hope that the Legislature will pass the rest of my Election Reform Package when they come back into session next week to help strengthen the voting process in Wisconsin and ensure that people can continue to have confidence in our election system."

Governor Doyle also today vetoed Senate Bill 420, which changes the definition of a group health benefit plan, reducing access to health insurance for small businesses."This is being sold by Republicans as something that will reduce health care costs and increase access - but in reality it will have the opposite effect," Governor Doyle said. "This bill will increase costs and limit insurance options for small businesses. Through the initiatives in my Affordability Agenda, I am working to reduce health care costs and provide broad and affordable access to health care coverage. This bill would undermine that effort."

Governor Doyle's veto message is available at: http://www.wisgov.state.wi.us//docview.asp?docid=6700