Reform Ohio Now seeks to put election reform on ballot

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Politicians in places like Ohio cannot be trusted to bring about election reform. It will have to be done like this -- with ballot initiatives.

http://www.reformohionow.org/content.jsp?content_KEY=551

Reform Ohio Now is made up of individuals from both parties who are concerned about inequities and outdated policies in Ohio's election system. We're working to bring significant change to Ohio through a series of constitutional amendments to be voted on in November 2005. These good government initiatives include:

Putting Ohio's process of legislative seat distribution in the hands of an independent, non-partisan commission. Currently, politicians bicker over where seats should be based on their own political interests, creating districts that are uncompetitive and where the issues facing Ohio are rarely debating in elections.

Campaign finance reform for Ohio. The saturation of money into political campaigns is at an all time high. We propose reducing the maximum individual contribution to $2000 for statewide candidates and $1000 for General Assembly candidates. Corporate contributions would be prohibited, and loopholes allowing minors to make contributions would be tightened. This amendment also places overall limits on total contributions by an individual to all candidates and parties while limiting the amount parties can contribute.

Modernizing Ohio's election system. Ohioans deserve easy access to the polls, but often have difficulty finding it. This amendment would allow all Ohioans to vote by mail, if they choose to do so. An independent Board of Supervisors would then oversee the conduct and administration of elections, ensuring access and fairness in elections.