Casting a ballot in an election is one of the most patriotic acts that an American citizen can perform. Because of this, voting law has been changed throughout American history to be sure that the process is best suited to contemporary needs and developments. Currently, Ohio's election practices are not tailored to the modern, fast-paced world that we live in. Inconsistencies and outdated procedures cause problems during elections, miring them in inefficiencies and letting voter fraud go unchecked.

In response to these weaknesses, the Ohio House recently has re-evaluated state voting laws and has offered many suggestions in the form of House Bill 194. The legislation is a set of comprehensive election reforms. I wholeheartedly support this bill because I know how effective it can be in resolving any ineffectual voting practices. Overall, the reforms will streamline the election experience, address incidences of fraud and increase the use of technology in elections.

House Bill 194 directs much of its attention to revising the use of provisional and absentee ballots. To better organize provisional and absentee voting, the bill would amend the verification process for these ballots and implement statewide standards for absentee voting. Additionally, it would reduce the number of reasons that require an individual to vote provisionally. By clarifying the procedures governing absentee and provisional ballots, we can improve accountability and help Ohioans to feel even better about the election process.

In terms of technological updates, House Bill 194 would allow voters to change their addresses online, making this task quick and convenient Furthermore, the legislation would approve the development of a top-down voter-registration database. This system would authorize the use and certification of electronic poll books, increase the accuracy of the rolls, pinpoint poll-worker error and ensure uniformity among absentee ballots, locations and time periods.

The measures developed in House Bill 194 would make long-overdue changes to Ohio's voting laws that are crucial if we are to conduct our elections honestly. Here in the Buckeye state, we have a tradition of fair and effective elections. I would like to see this tradition continue, and with House Bill 194, we can restore the integrity that has long been associated with Ohio's electoral process.