The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals today ruled that "The Secretary of State is enjoined from conducting an election on any issue on October 7, 2003;" however, the court stayed their order for 7 days.

In sum, the court ordered that the election not go forward, but indicates

this order DOES NOT GO INTO EFFECT FOR 7 DAYS so that the 9^th Circuit Court of Appeals order can be appealed by the state to the US Supreme Court.

Election officials throughout the state are continuing election administration activities and voters are advised to do the same, Santa Cruz County Clerk Richard W. Bedal said. "Voters should continue to vote absentee, register to vote, and plan for this election as if this decision were never made," Bedal suggested.

The final word on whether the October 7, 2003 election will or will not be held is in the hands of the U.S. Supreme Court with a decision expected within 7 days.

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