SAN BERNARDINO – (INT) – County taxpayers had to suck-up the million dollar cost of two special State Senate elections that only 10 percent of the voters participated in.

Assemblywoman Norma Torres will succeed Gloria McLeod representing the 32nd Senate District. That will leave Torres’ Assembly seat vacant requiring yet another special election or two.

Registrar of Voters Michael Scarpello has taken steps to lessen the costs. He’s backing a proposed bill that requires the state to share the costs.

“SB 519 provides relief to the counties on a short-term basis until we can figure out a more permanent solution to these special elections.”

Similar bills have failed in the past as lawmakers who don't finish their term want some measure of control over running for the political office of their choice regardless of who pays the election costs.

Story Date: May 21, 2013