This bill aims to enhance election security and validation in North Dakota by amending existing laws related to voting systems and introducing new requirements. Key amendments include the definition of "current" as the ninety days prior to an election for evaluating election system security, and the stipulation that all voting systems must be certified according to the United States Election Assistance Commission guidelines version 2.0. Additionally, the bill mandates that if a voting system is not current and secure, election officials must conduct a manual hand count of the ballots instead of using the voting system for tabulation.

Furthermore, the bill establishes rigorous testing protocols for voting systems before each election, including a complete post-election hand count audit of all ballots cast. It requires that every ballot style be tested in all races and precincts, and if errors are detected, they must be corrected before the election. The bill also emphasizes transparency by requiring that testing results be made available for public inspection shortly after testing. Overall, the proposed legislation seeks to ensure the integrity and security of the electoral process in North Dakota.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 16.1-06-12, 16.1-06-14, 16.1-06-15, 16.1-06-26