Relative to ballot counting procedures and permitting the hand counting of ballots.
If passed, HB 693 would have a significant impact on RSA 659 regarding voting procedures and the roles of election officials. The legislation allows moderation and local officials, including selectmen and town clerks, the discretion to conduct hand counts, which could be employed to verify results or assist in cases where electronic machines fail. This could potentially lead to increased transparency in elections as manual counts are often viewed as more reliable by segments of the electorate.
House Bill 693 aims to amend existing ballot counting procedures by granting voters the option to have their ballots counted by hand instead of using electronic counting machines. The bill proposes that in towns and cities employing electronic voting devices, voters can present their ballots to a moderator for manual counting. This initiative is introduced amidst growing discussions about the security and accuracy of electronic voting systems, reflecting a concern for increased voter confidence in election outcomes.
The sentiment surrounding the bill appears mixed. Proponents argue that allowing hand counts will enhance the integrity of elections and provide voters with greater control over the voting process. They assert that in a climate of concern over voting technology, such measures are crucial for restoring public trust. Conversely, critics caution that hand counting could lead to increased logistical challenges and longer waiting times at polling places, raising concerns about the efficiency of the electoral process.
A notable point of contention relates to funding and resource allocation for implementing this legislation. The fiscal note states that the bill does not provide funding for additional positions or training, which raises questions about how local communities will absorb potential costs tied to increased election worker hours and the need for privacy measures. Opponents might argue that without financial backing, the bill could unintentionally burden towns, particularly those with limited resources, potentially impacting their ability to conduct smooth and efficient elections.