Substitute Bill No. 1232 introduces significant reforms to the election auditing process in Connecticut, mandating risk-limiting audits for state elections. These audits, which must be conducted by registrars of voters within a specified timeframe after elections, will include a minimum of five percent of state legislative offices and various other offices, ensuring public observation throughout the process. The bill establishes a new definition for "risk-limiting audit" and outlines procedures for reporting results to the Secretary of the State, who is empowered to investigate discrepancies and require recertification of voting equipment. Additionally, the legislation emphasizes transparency by making audit results publicly accessible and allowing for the preservation of voting tabulators beyond the usual timeframe if ordered by a court or election authority.

Key amendments in the bill include the repeal and replacement of existing statutes related to election audits and complaints, streamlining the process for addressing election irregularities. The bill specifies that complaints related to audits must be filed within seven days of the audit's conclusion, and judges are required to hold hearings on these complaints within a designated timeframe. Furthermore, the bill establishes a pilot program for risk-limiting audits during municipal elections in 2025, selecting three municipalities based on population size. Overall, these changes aim to enhance the integrity, efficiency, and public confidence in the electoral process in Connecticut.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 9-320f, 9-323, 9-324, 9-328, 9-3, 9-320g
GAE Joint Favorable Substitute: 9-320f, 9-323, 9-324, 9-328, 9-3, 9-320g
File No. 100: 9-320f, 9-323, 9-324, 9-328, 9-3, 9-320g
APP Joint Favorable: 9-320f, 9-323, 9-324, 9-328, 9-3, 9-320g