Relating to voting system ballots.
One of the notable implications of HB3698 is the requirement for the Secretary of State to approve ballot printers for use with specific electronic voting systems. This measure aims to ensure that all printed ballots are compatible and accurately read by the voting technology in use. By establishing this approval process, the bill seeks to mitigate the risks associated with using unverified or incompatible printing options, which could compromise electoral integrity. Moreover, an election authority is barred from utilizing any printer and voting system combination that lacks the Secretary's approval, promoting uniformity.
House Bill 3698 introduces several amendments to the Texas Election Code focused on enhancing the integrity and accountability of electronic voting systems. The bill mandates the inclusion of a serial number on each electronic system ballot, which must be printed prior to insertion into a ballot marking device. This change is intended to facilitate tracking and help ensure the reliability of votes cast using electronic systems. Additionally, the bill prohibits the Secretary of State from waiving this serial number requirement, thereby reinforcing its significance.
There may be some points of contention surrounding HB3698, particularly regarding the amendments that establish mandates for reporting and tracking ballots. The requirement for maintaining serial numbers for spoiled ballots could lead to administrative challenges for election officials, particularly in larger precincts where managing paper records becomes complex. Overall, while the bill is aimed at improving electoral integrity, the enforcement of these new requirements could lead to debates on their practicality and potential administrative burden.