Lawmakers are zeroing in on ways to cut the cost to taxpayers for holding elections. Recent months have seen a long string of special elections, even locally.
With term limits taking effect, state senators are abandoning ship for statewide posts and new public jobs. Representatives are stepping up to become senators, and their vacancies are prompting promotions for parish councilmen and mayors across Louisiana.
Over the past six years, taxpayers have footed the bill for more than $1 million worth of special elections, 32 unexpected contests, according to the Legislative Auditor’s Office. The audit also says Louisiana spent more money on special elections than any state.
Based on a search of the Secretary of State’s election database, legislative leaders have called seven such races since November alone, including five this year, despite there being regularly scheduled elections scheduled for the fall.
Full Article: State bills could cut costs of elections | DailyComet.com.