State Sen. Dianne Byrum on Tuesday provided written testimony to the national commission on election reform, urging it to seek federal funding to modernize and improve poll machinery.

“I find the election issue interesting and challenging,” said the Onondaga Democrat whose district includes MSU. “It is something that needs attention. Too many voters felt disenfranchised (in 2000).”

The National Commission on Federal Election Reform met for its fourth and final time Tuesday in Ann Arbor. The task force, led by former presidents Gerald Ford and Jimmy Carter, is expected to release its findings in September.

Byrum’s testimony focused on making the voting process more accessible, accurate and accountable. She said better training for election workers, placing more workers at polls and the creation of an early voting system could help reach that goal.

Byrum is leading her own Michigan voting reform task force. The senator’s commission has held two of its six scheduled hearings and will meet again June 21 at Mott Community College in Flint.

Criminals who prey on elderly, disabled may face more time, fines

State Sen. Joe Young Jr., D-Detroit, unveiled legislation Friday that calls for an increase in penalties for people convicted of crimes aimed at senior citizens or people with physical or mental disabilities.

Young said there are too many criminals who target those adult groups because they seem more vulnerable.

His legislation, now pending in the Senate Judiciary Committee, calls for longer jail sentences and increased fines for those convicted of the targeted crimes.

The measure, Young said, is meant to “level the playing field for individuals who appear to be easy victims.”