Relating to the use of certain optical scan ballot technology by an election authority operating a central counting station.
Impact
If adopted, HB 3763 could lead to significant changes in the way election authorities manage and store voting data across Texas. The Secretary of State's study will evaluate both the technological and financial implications of implementing such a requirement. The results of this study will be critical in determining if this law will be adopted, and if so, how it will be rolled out at local elections offices. The bill also includes a provision for a public report of the findings by October 1, 2024, which aims to keep the legislative branch informed regarding advancements or potential obstacles in enforcing this measure.
Summary
House Bill 3763 seeks to enhance the security and reliability of the voting process in Texas through the use of fixed optical scan ballot technology. Specifically, the bill mandates that the Secretary of State conduct a study to assess the feasibility of requiring election authorities that use central counting optical ballot systems to utilize storage discs that, once written, cannot be modified. This requirement aims to bolster the integrity of the election process by ensuring that the vote data remains untouched after initial recording, fostering public confidence in the electoral system.
Sentiment
Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB 3763 appears to be supportive, particularly among those committed to strengthening election security. Proponents express that the move to fixed optical scan technology could mitigate the risks of data manipulation or errors associated with current electronic voting systems. However, there are concerns regarding the financial costs and technological hurdles that might arise, especially for smaller counties that may struggle with the financial implications of upgrading their equipment.
Contention
Notable points of contention may arise concerning the timing and financial feasibility of implementing the required technology. Critics of mandated upgrades to voting systems often highlight the burden on local governments to finance these changes while ensuring compliance with state regulations. Additionally, the performance of current technology in securely storing ballot data might be questioned, further fueling debates around the necessity and efficacy of the proposed measures in HB 3763.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Election Code
Chapter 127. Processing Electronic Voting System Results
A bill for an act relating to the conduct of elections, including the casting of provisional ballots by persons registering to vote on election day or when casting an in-person absentee ballot, and the use of automatic tabulating equipment and optical scan voting systems.