Maryland House Bill HB894

Maryland 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/9/23
• Refer: 2/9/23

Caption

Election Law – Voting Systems – Sourced, Manufactured, and Assembled in the United States

Impact

If enacted, HB 894 would significantly influence the state's election laws by establishing a clear framework for the procurement and use of voting systems. This legislation aims to protect the electoral process from external threats and enhance voter confidence in the election system. The ramifications of this bill could include increased costs for compliance due to potentially higher prices for domestically sourced systems, as well as limiting the options for voting technology available to local jurisdictions.

Summary

House Bill 894 seeks to enhance the integrity and security of voting systems in Maryland by mandating that any voting system must be sourced, manufactured, and assembled entirely within the United States. This requirement aims to ensure that voting systems meet high security and reliability standards, potentially reducing the risks associated with foreign-made systems. The bill proposes stringent criteria for the certification of voting systems, limiting the certifying authority of the State Board of Elections to only those systems that comply with these national sourcing standards.

Contention

The introduction of HB 894 has sparked discussions regarding the potential logistical and financial challenges it might impose on election authorities. Supporters argue that the bill is a vital step towards safeguarding elections from malicious foreign interference. However, critics may raise concerns about the feasibility of complying with these sourcing requirements. Questions may arise about whether domestic manufacturers can meet the demand for such systems while ensuring they adhere to the specified standards, particularly in light of technological advancements and the evolving landscape of election security.