This bill proposes significant updates to current election-related statutes in Arizona, particularly concerning the security and operation of electronic voting systems. Under the new provisions, the Secretary of State (SOS) would be required to ensure that all approved electronic voting systems, including vote recording and tabulating machines, do not support any form of internet connectivity or remote access. Additionally, these systems must implement user tracking with unique credentials, log deletions of ballot images and maintain election software logs for a minimum of 22 months. The bill also mandates that any voting equipment used in polling places or counting centers must be free from internet access and must have tamper-proof seals on accessible ports, with detailed chain of custody documentation for all equipment.

Furthermore, the bill introduces penalties for violations of these requirements, classifying negligent violations as a class 1 misdemeanor. It emphasizes the prohibition of indirect internet connectivity, including through election management system gateway systems, and requires that all activities at counting centers be recorded on a nonstop video feed posted online. The legislation also includes a series of legislative findings that highlight concerns about the security of election systems and the risks associated with internet connectivity, asserting that secure elections can only be achieved by completely isolating election management systems from the internet.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 16-442, 16-567, 16-605
Senate Engrossed Version: 16-442, 16-567, 16-605
House Engrossed Version: 16-442, 16-567, 16-605