Requiring the preservation of electronic ballot counting device external storage devices.
Impact
The introduction of HB 270 is expected to significantly impact how election materials are managed and secured within local municipalities. By instituting strict preservation protocols, the bill seeks to bolster public confidence in the electoral process, addressing growing concerns over election integrity and the potential for disputes arising from voting outcomes. This preservation is crucial not only for safeguarding the results of past elections but also in allowing for thorough investigations should legal challenges arise.
Summary
House Bill 270 aims to establish new regulations regarding the preservation of external storage devices used in electronic ballot counting machines. Specifically, the bill mandates that these devices, alongside other election materials, must be preserved until any electoral contest is resolved and all appeals have been completed. This requirement extends for a minimum duration of 22 months following an election, ensuring robust safeguards around the electronic voting process.
Contention
Despite its intentions, the bill has faced scrutiny regarding logistics and potential financial implications. Critics express concerns over the indeterminate costs associated with procuring additional electronic storage devices necessary for compliance, especially during non-general election periods. Some local officials worry that the bill may impose burdens on smaller communities with limited resources for implementing these mandates. Additionally, there are discussions about whether the prolonged preservation of electronic materials could complicate future technology upgrades or maintenance operations.
Fiscal_note
According to the fiscal note associated with HB 270, there is an indeterminate increase in local expenditures due to the potential need for additional memory cards for ballot counting devices in off-year elections. While the Department of State has indicated that there would be no direct fiscal impact on its operations, the lengthy preservation requirements may lead to unexpected costs for local governments tasked with managing and storing these materials.
Relative to intimidation of election officials, officers, and workers, improper influence over the electoral process, and tampering with electronic ballot counting devices, voter lists or rosters, voter registration systems, and voting system components or passwords.
Relating to appointment of and performance of notarial acts by an online notary public and online acknowledgment and proof of written instruments; authorizing a fee and creating a criminal offense.