Local jurisdictions nationwide devote significant resources to planning for run-of-the-mill Election Day mishaps, like ballot shortages and machine breakdowns. In the aftermath of events like Hurricane Katrina, however, many administrators have come to realize that contingency plans in the event of natural or manmade disasters are also needed. In May, the House Committee on House Administration conducted a hearing to examine what lessons have been learned at all levels of government in this area, and to discuss what steps should be taken next.

Read the testimony from and watch the webcast of the hearing here.