Va. elections chief on emergency plans panel

RICHMOND, Va. (AP) — Virginia is represented on a task force that will recommend how state election officials should prepare for and respond to emergencies.

State Board of Elections Secretary Don Palmer is one of 23 chief state election officials named to the task force. The panel was formed after Hurricane Sandy struck the East Coast just days before last November's general election. It will work with federal and state emergency management officials to develop a detailed report containing guidance for states.

The task force begins its work this month and is scheduled to release its report early next year.