This bill proposes to allow registered New Hampshire voters to inspect electronic digital images of marked ballots and the corresponding vote records from ballot counting devices that use digital image technology. The bill specifies that such images will be available for public inspection under the supervision of the Secretary of State, who will also be responsible for scheduling access, verifying eligibility, and ensuring the integrity of the election data and voter privacy. Observers will be able to examine the images to verify the accuracy of the counting devices and check for errors or tampering, but they will not be able to connect to the computer or handle the original memory devices. Access to the images will be granted only after all recounts and appeals are completed, and observers will have the right to report discrepancies to the ballot law commission and request an investigation by the attorney general.

The fiscal note attached to the bill indicates that implementing this legislation will result in increased state expenditures, estimated to exceed $100,000 annually starting in FY 2025. These costs include purchasing memory cards, software, additional equipment, and hiring IT support staff to manage the image viewing process. The bill does not provide funding to cover these expenditures nor does it authorize new positions to implement the bill. The New Hampshire Municipal Association notes that municipalities will also incur additional costs related to training election officials, altering reports, and coordinating with the Secretary of State's office, although the exact fiscal impact on local expenditures is indeterminable. The bill is set to take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 659:64-a