Louisiana House Bill HCR25

Louisiana 2018 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/29/18
• Refer: 4/2/18

Caption

Requests the House and Governmental Affairs and Senate and Governmental Affairs committees to meet and function as a joint committee to study the use of technology in Louisiana's elections

Impact

The potential impacts of HCR25 on state laws are significant as it aims to address various aspects of the election process. The resolution outlines specific areas for consideration by the joint committee, including the hardware and software utilized by both voters and election officials, funding requirements, risk assessments, and verification procedures. By gathering insights from various stakeholders such as the Secretary of State and electoral advocacy groups, the resolution seeks to develop a comprehensive approach to improving Louisiana's election infrastructure, promoting confidence among voters.

Summary

HCR25 is a House Concurrent Resolution that calls for the establishment of a joint committee comprising the House and Senate Committees on Governmental Affairs to study the use of technology in Louisiana's elections. This initiative acknowledges the critical role that technology plays in modernizing the electoral process, particularly in voting mechanisms and maintaining accurate voter registration. The resolution emphasizes the need to ensure the security and integrity of the electoral system as the state aims to transition to new voting equipment due to the current technology reaching the end of its useful life.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HCR25 appears to be positive, with a general consensus on the importance of upgrading election technology to enhance security and maintain democratic integrity. Supporters of the resolution recognize the necessity of adapting to advancements in technology to address contemporary challenges in the electoral process. However, there may be concerns regarding funding and implementation timelines, as well as ensuring inclusive access to new technologies for all voters.

Contention

While there is broad support for HCR25, potential points of contention could arise around the specifics of technology implementation and funding sources. Concerns may also emerge regarding how quickly the new systems can be integrated without causing disruptions to ongoing electoral processes. Additionally, the resolution may spark discussions about balancing technological advancements with ensuring accessibility for voters, particularly among vulnerable populations who may face barriers to new voting systems.