Raised Bill No. 1232 seeks to enhance the integrity and transparency of the electoral process in Connecticut by establishing a framework for risk-limiting audits of state elections, effective January 1, 2026. The bill mandates registrars of voters to conduct these audits within a specified timeframe after elections, ensuring public notice and observation. It outlines the offices subject to audits, including presidential electors, state offices, and congressional representatives, with at least five percent of state legislative offices also included. The Secretary of the State will oversee the selection process for audited offices, which must be open to public scrutiny, and any inconclusive audit results will necessitate a manual recount of ballots. The bill also introduces new provisions for the preservation of ballots, examination of voting tabulators, and public accessibility of audit results, while repealing existing language regarding manual audits.

Additionally, the bill modifies the complaint process for candidates or electors aggrieved by election rulings or vote counts, allowing for complaints to be filed with the Supreme Court and establishing specific timelines for addressing these complaints. It clarifies definitions related to voting methods and discrepancies, and mandates the creation of a ballot manifest within 72 hours after polls close. Key deletions from current law include the removal of references to "manual tabulation of paper ballots," replaced with "audits," and the repeal of certain subsections to streamline the election process. Overall, the bill aims to modernize election procedures, enhance accountability, and ensure timely resolutions of election-related complaints.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 9-320f, 9-323, 9-324, 9-328, 9-3, 9-320g