PIERRE, S.D.(KBRK)- The state legislature’s Government Operations and Audit Committee voted Thursday to subpoena Secretary of State Monae Johnson.

Johnson had been repeatedly invited to appear before the committee but did not attend yesterday’s meeting. The committee wants to ask about allegations made by election-advocacy organization South Dakota Canvassing Group regarding election equipment contracts.

State Senator Taffy Howard is committee chair.

State Rep. Marty Overweg is committee vice-chair.

State Sen. Ernie Otten said the committee deserves answers.

Secretary Johnson released the following statement:

“Safe elections are my top priority as secretary of state. I told the GOAC Committee that today wouldn’t work for my testimony because of a County Auditor training, and I sent a letter responding to their questions. I’ll continue to work with them to transparently do my job for the people of South Dakota.”

The state Government Operations and Audit Committee is scheduled to meet again November 13.