WHEREAS, the voter registration and election processes are the foundations of our democratic system of government; and

WHEREAS, participation in these processes is a right, a privilege and a responsibility; and

WHEREAS, the citizens of this State are guaranteed, and have a right to expect, that voter registration will be readily available to all qualified persons and that elections will be conducted in a fair, impartial and efficient manner, with the opportunity to cast their votes for the candidates of their choice; and

WHEREAS, the State Election Commission and the Boards of Voter Registration and County Election Commissions of the various counties are appointed by the Governor and tasked with the responsibility for the voter registration and election processes; and

WHEREAS, it appears that a comprehensive, statewide study of voter registration and elections in South Carolina, providing an opportunity for input by the citizens of the State, and identifying strengths, weaknesses, problems and areas of concern, and further suggesting solutions to alleviate those problems and concerns would be beneficial to heighten awareness, prepare for needed changes and ensure that the voter registration and election processes meet the needs of all South Carolinians as we enter the new millennium.

NOW, THEREFORE, as the chief elected official in the Sate, and as the appointing authority for the State Election Commission, County Boards of Voter Registration and County Election Commissions, I do hereby order:

Section 1. That the State Election Commission shall direct and oversee a South Carolina Election Summit to be conducted in 1999.

Section 2. That the County Boards of Voter Registration and County Election Commissions of the various counties shall conduct County Summits utilizing input from various organizations and the citizens of the county concerning the voter registration and election processes and report their findings to the State Oversight Committee appointed by the State Election Commission.

Section 3. That the State Election Commission shall prepare a report of its findings on the state of voter registration and elections in South Carolina, including recommendations to improve these processes for all citizens of the State. This report shall be submitted to the Governor and the General Assembly by December 1, 1999.