The federal HAVA law, the judge ruled, does not supersede or void the provision of the state constitution.
Two scenarios result, both of which probably would require a waiver of the federal deadline until next year. Westmoreland County officials might appeal the ruling. Otherwise, counties will have to conduct referendums on making the switch. The integrity of elections is worth more than $2 million, and a majority of voters might opt against electronic devices. But in any case, the deadline is arbitrary and easily can be set for next year. |