If passed, AB 3195 would empower the Secretary of State to establish and publish new voting system standards that meet or exceed those set by the United States Election Assistance Commission (EAC). This includes stipulations for voting system functionality, accessibility for voters with disabilities, and protection against fraud and manipulation. By allowing state standards to be more flexible and responsive to changes in federal guidelines, the bill could enhance the overall security and effectiveness of California's voting systems.
Summary
Assembly Bill 3195, introduced by Assembly Member Berman, aims to amend Section 19101 of the Elections Code concerning voting system standards in California. The bill proposes modifications to existing regulations by deleting the requirement for the Secretary of State to use federal voluntary voting system guidelines until state standards are adopted. This change seeks to streamline the process for updating state voting standards to align with evolving federal regulations regarding voting systems.
Contention
The key points of contention regarding AB 3195 center around the balance of state versus federal control over voting standards and the implications for election integrity and accessibility. Critics may express concern that removing the immediate obligation to adhere to federal guidelines could lead to inconsistent standards and potentially undermine public trust in the electoral process. Proponents insist that localized standards could better serve the needs of California voters, particularly in ensuring accessibility for individuals requiring language assistance or support due to disabilities.