Relating to the use of direct recording electronic voting machines.
Impact
The introduction of HB 3636 could significantly impact Texas's election laws by standardizing the requirements for direct recording electronic voting machines. As a result, this legislative change may address concerns regarding election integrity and voter confidence by providing a verifiable paper backup for electronic votes. For older voting machines that do not meet these new standards, provisions are included to allow for their use under certain conditions, such as offering a paper ballot option to voters.
Summary
House Bill 3636 focuses on enhancing the security and reliability of direct recording electronic voting machines used in elections. The bill mandates the implementation of a paper audit trail, ensuring that a contemporaneous paper record of electronic votes is created. This requirement is aimed at providing voters the ability to visually and non-visually verify their choices before casting their vote. The bill specifies that any voting system used must meet specific certification standards and must create an auditable paper record that must be stored securely, reinforcing the integrity of the voting process.
Contention
Notably, discussions surrounding this bill may involve contentious issues related to the cost of implementing these new requirements and the potential for longer wait times at polling places due to the addition of paper audit processes. Supporters argue that the bill is essential for safeguarding elections, while opponents could express concerns about the practicality and financial implications of replacing or updating existing voting machines. This debate reflects a broader national conversation on election security and voter access.
Relating to election integrity and security, including by preventing fraud in the conduct of elections in this state; authorizing a penalty, increasing a penalty.
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.