To increase the safety and security of unattended ballot boxes
Impact
The proposed legislation amends Chapter 54 of the General Laws by adding a new section that outlines the requirements for surveillance. These include the necessity for motion-activated cameras that record continuously during elections, as well as signage indicating surveillance. By establishing these security measures, the bill could lead to significant improvements in the integrity of the voting process and reduce the risk of voter fraud associated with mail-in and unattended ballot casting.
Summary
House Bill 842, introduced by Representative Steven S. Howitt, seeks to enhance the safety and security of unattended ballot boxes during elections in Massachusetts. The bill mandates that every election officer in cities or towns provide round-the-clock video surveillance for each unattended ballot drop box in their jurisdiction. This provision aims to deter potential tampering and increase voter confidence in the election process by ensuring that ballots are secure from the moment they are deposited until they are collected for counting.
Contention
Although the bill presents a proactive approach to securing unattended ballot boxes, potential points of contention may arise around the implementation costs for municipalities, the management of surveillance data, and privacy concerns for voters. Critics could argue that the financial burden of installing and maintaining surveillance systems may disproportionately affect smaller towns with limited budgets. Additionally, discussions might focus on who controls the video footage, how long it is stored, and the implications for voter privacy rights, particularly in areas with high foot traffic or public visibility.