Elections; requiring the State Election Board to update certain system; requiring ballots to be digitized and made available to the public. Effective date.
The bill also calls for the digitization of all ballots, which must be made publicly available within 30 days post-election. The digitized ballots will be hosted on a publicly accessible website and must be searchable by the unique identifier number. This requirement aims to ensure that the electoral process remains transparent and allows the public to verify the ballots cast during elections for at least two years after each election. By augmenting public access to election data, SB1114 seeks to improve voter confidence and engagement in the electoral process.
Senate Bill 1114 mandates significant updates to the election system in Oklahoma, requiring the State Election Board to implement several new provisions aimed at improving the transparency and accessibility of ballots. The bill stipulates that all ballots must feature a unique identifier number or code that appears in at least two locations on the ballot. This measure is intended to enhance security and traceability in the electoral process. Additionally, it introduces a perforated section on ballots that voters can tear off for their records, further promoting voter identification and accountability.
While the bill presents clear benefits in terms of transparency and accountability, it may be met with some contention. Concerns could arise regarding the security of the digitized ballot data and the potential for increased administrative burden on the State Election Board to maintain such a system. Opponents may argue that while the intent of the bill promotes openness, the practical implications of digitizing sensitive voter information could lead to risks related to data privacy and election security.