Momentum for recorded voting

Since Rep. Nikki Haley, R-Lexington, first sought recorded voting in the General Assembly last session, more and more legislators are standing up to be counted. So far, 18 House members have joined her as co-sponsors of a bill that would require legislators to record their votes on a wide range of issues. More should follow.

In addition to the House members who have joined Rep. Haley for greater legislative accountability, her proposal now has been given the support of Senate Majority Leader Harvey Peeler, R-Gaffney, and Lt. Gov. Andre Bauer, who presides over the Senate.

Lt. Gov. Bauer should join Gov. Mark Sanford in using his influence as a statewide elected official to promote the idea of recorded voting. Although comparatively rare in the South Carolina Legislature, most states already require it as an essential element of accountability.

Without a recorded vote, how can you tell how a legislator really stands on an issue? And if you don't really know that, how can you make an informed decision at the polls?

Rep. Haley's bill would require a recorded vote on all major legislation, such as budget matters and conference committee reports. Minor legislation - resolutions, recognitions and congratulatory acts - would be exempt.

Gov. Sanford has been criticized by at least one legislative leader for taking up the cause of recorded voting. Voters, however, should welcome his advocacy. The governor has increased public support for an important reform and heightened the demand that the Legislature act upon it.

Rep. Haley points out that the bill has support from legislators of both parties. "This is not a partisan issue. This is a good government issue." She adds, "The momentum is certainly building."

Putting legislators on the record would be good for the Legislature and the taxpayers. Before legislators cast a recorded vote, they will be more likely to have educated themselves on the issue. They will be less likely to vote for spending that they can't defend. Consequently, the taxpayers also will benefit.

Also important: Lawmakers will be more likely to actually show up for votes.

The more legislative support that is garnered for this bill, the more certain that it will be put to a vote. Supporters should be careful that it isn't diluted along the way.

This is a simple reform that deserves a vote early next session, so that the business of the Legislature will finally be fully "on the record."