Mixed Results In Suit Over La. Voter Registration

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — A federal appeals court order dealing with Louisiana's enforcement of a national law on voter registration was mostly a victory for the state.

The 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals dismissed complaints that the state wasn't providing required voter registration forms to people applying for government benefits by internet, telephone or mail. It also rejected an argument that the state violated a law requiring that registration forms be provided to people who don't explicitly reject — in writing — the opportunity to register.

The appeals court did rule that the Secretary of State's office has the power to make other state agencies comply with the federal act. Secretary of State Tom Schedler said Thursday he disagrees with that part of the ruling, saying it conflicts with the state's constitution.