The Student Senate finally passed its election code Wednesday night after debating for an entire semester.
The code was passed amid a unanimous chorus of “ayes” during the Senate meeting.
Sen. Heath Hattaway said the revised election code is the product of a compromise between Student Government’s executive and legislative branches.
He said the code limits the amount of time during which students running for an office can say they are running, but gives students more time to vote.
“Active campaigning” was an issue concerning the election code.
“We considered the rights of campaigning to allow more students the opportunity to vote and select leaders representing the campus community,” Hattaway said.
Students can use PAWS to vote anywhere on campus, he said. In Fall 2004, students can avoid the Quad and the campaigners. They can look at the issues and decide for themselves, Hattaway said. This is a victory for the students.
Sen. Brandon Smith said he is glad the election code has been passed.
Smith said the grievances and concerns many senators had with the former election code have been rectified.
“Most of the senators truly want election reform that would positively affect students and get more input,” he said.
Allen Richey, SG president, said the new election code looks good for students and campaigners.
Richey said there is enough security in place to ensure that the integrity of the elections is not at stake.
He said he thinks the code strengthens the elections because it provides flexibility for students and campaigners.
It will also raise the standards expected of campaigners, Richey said.
Michael Busada, Senate Speaker, said the code will provide students a better way of voting.
“It’s great that we are giving them an easier way to vote, but unless we give them a reason to vote then they are not going to do it,” Busada said.
In other Senate business, John Chassaniol and Evan Bergeron were sworn in as University College of Freshman Year senators.