Guide distributed to Election Security Task Force and county election officials

INDIANAPOLIS (October 29, 2012) –Today, Secretary of State Connie Lawson announced an Election and Polling Place Emergency Preparedness Guide has been distributed to the Election Security Task Force, county clerks and county election boards. The guide provides counties with information to prepare and respond in the event of an emergency situation on Election Day.

“While hurricanes are not a major threat to Indiana, they do serve as a reminder that we must be prepared for any event whether it be a natural or man-made disaster so we can promptly and appropriately respond to any situation which might disrupt voting,” said Secretary Lawson. “Many people don’t realize September 11, 2001 was Primary Election Day in New York City. The tragic events that transpired that day took precedence over the election, but it’s important that we learn from them. The Election Day emergency guide distributed by my office will help counties develop plans and react in the event of voting disruption on Election Day.”

The Secretary of State’s office, the Indiana Election Division and county election officials have established emergency response plans for urgent situations that can be anticipated. For example, in the event of an issue with a voting machine, back up machines are available and technicians are prepared to respond. Alternative polling locations have been established as a precaution for a fire or flood and extra ballots will be printed for each precinct. Counties have also reached out to local utility companies to identify the best contacts if issues with power arise.

Secretary Lawson has been traveling to county clerk’s offices to ensure every county is prepared for Election Day. Since March, Secretary Lawson has visited 86 counties and traveled over 12,000 miles. On Election Day, she will visit Ohio County, her 92nd county.

The Election Security Task Force is comprised of leaders of the Indiana State police, the Indiana Department of Homeland Security, the Attorney General’s office, the Circuit County Clerk’s Association, the County Commissioners’ Association and the County Sheriffs’ Association. Secretary Lawson began working with the task force in August to prepare for the upcoming General Election.