In the most clear sign yet of how much things have changed since Bruce McPherson became Secretary of State almost four months ago, federal elections officials have released the final installment of California's share of election reform cash.

McPherson announced this morning that the U.S. Election Assistance Commission has handed over $169 million in funds from the Help America Vote Act (HAVA)-- money that was held back, in part, because of the cloud of controversy over how former Secretary Kevin Shelley had spent some of the initial HAVA money.

You'll remember McPherson traveled back east to DC last month to personally reassure federal officials. Local elections officials will be able to use the money for various election reform projects once the Legislature signs off on the plan.