RALEIGH, N.C. -- An election reform group says local officials must hire more staff and open more early voting sites or people will face long lines in November.

Democracy North Carolina said Monday that between 700,000 and 1 million more people could cast ballots than the 3.5 million who voted in 2004.

More voters are expected because of a surge in registration and the excitement over the presidential race. People also can now register and vote on the same day during three weeks before Election Day.

Executive director Bob Hall wants county election boards to open more one-stop voting sites, extend hours even to Sunday afternoon.

The state budget signed by Gov. Mike Easley last week set aside $1 million for county grants to prepare for the turnout.