Local clerks are criticizing a bill that would eliminate straight-ticket voting in Michigan. A state House panel heard testimony on the legislation Thursday.
Walker City Clerk Sarah Bydalek spoke on behalf of the Michigan Association of Municipal Clerks. She says the bills would lead to longer lines and wait times on Election Day.
“The average wait time is 22 minutes. So now, if everybody has to go all the way down every ballot and every candidate and mark their ballot, that could probably double," she says.
Republicans in the House say the bill is related to legislation that would allow no-reason absentee voting in Michigan. Some clerks say making it easier to vote absentee could address their concerns about longer wait times.
