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In reaction to recent reports that voting for military personnel currently serving overseas could be negatively affected during the 2010 elections, Congressman Bob Latta (R-Bowling Green) recently sent a letter to Robert Carey, Director of the Federal Voting Assistance Program for the Department of Defense, encouraging him to ensure the Military and Overseas Voter Empowerment (MOVE) Act is followed.

The MOVE Act requires states to mail unmarked absentee ballots to military and overseas voters at least 45 days prior to an election.  The bill does allow for states to apply for a waiver from the 45-day requirement, but only if at least one of three specific situations arise that renders the state “unable” to comply with that timeline.  

Congressman Latta’s letter, which can he found here asks Mr. Carey to make the waiver process under the MOVE Act transparent so that it is clear states are only granted waivers under the most extreme circumstances.  

United States Attorney General Eric Holder, who is responsible for enforcing the law, was also sent a copy of the letter.  

“Without the brave men and women of the U.S. military actively protecting American freedom, each of us would not be able to participate in our great democracy.  It should be without question that our government makes every effort to protect the ability of our defenders to vote.  The MOVE Act makes this possible.  We urge you to make the waiver applications transparent, so that it is absolutely clear if the civil rights of members of the Armed Forces are enforced,” Latta stated in the letter.