Voters can now exercise fingertip access to the American political process thanks to a new Web site that encourages a wide array of constituent participation.

The recently launched Web site, known as StateDemocracy.com (www.StateDemocracy.com), was founded by community activist Shukoor Ahmed. Ahmed's pet project was introduced in January to coincide with the recent reconvening of state legislatures and Congress, the release said.

"I want to help every citizen be a lobbyist so democracy works," Ahmed said.

The primary goal of the Web site is to both generate more interest in politics and to personally involve American citizens in the sometimes complex legislative process.

"Now the 'silent majority' can be heard not only on Election Day, but also as lawmakers' debate and vote on critical issues," a press release said.

According to the release, users will have the ability to identify all national and state legislators, as well as being able to examine legislation that is being discussed by lawmakers.

"The pros and cons (of the legislation) are presented, along with links to in-depth policy analysis from governmental, academic and public interest sources," the release said.

One of the more original features of the Web site allows users to vote on the actual bills that are awaiting approval.

"An individual 'Voter Portfolio' tracks all mock votes on legislation for comparison with lawmakers' actual votes," the release said.

"Lawmakers are automatically notified (of the results)."

Among the other tools users are provided are a chat room to deliberate with other activists, on-line voter registrations and absentee ballots, and an "automatic compilation" of e-mail opinion that is forwarded to lawmakers as a means of monitoring the public's attitude.

Ahmed also hopes the Web site will aid interest groups in their efforts to gain membership, as well as their goals of polic y shaping.

"Advocacy groups can use StateDemocracy.com to help members become influential activists, while lawmakers value how it keeps them in touch with voters," the press release said.

Penn State College Democrats President Jared Cram said the political site was a fantastic idea.

"Any site that is going to make politics more accessible to the people is a good thing," he said. "Once the word gets out about this site, I think it will have a large impact on getting people to vote."

T.J. Kokolis, a member of the College Republicans was hesitant to endorse the Web site and its validity.

"You have to be careful. You can't give credence to everything," Kokolis said.

"But anything on either aisle that gets the word out to voters is positive."

Ohio State Representative Jim Trakas (R-Independence) applauded the Web site's efforts.

"It's an innovative approach to constituent service," he said in the release.