This bill mandates the preservation of electronic ballot counting device external storage devices alongside other election materials until the contest is resolved and all appeals have expired, or for a minimum of 22 months after elections, whichever period is longer. The bill amends existing laws to include the preservation of these external storage devices, which were previously not specified. Additionally, it states that extra external storage devices that were programmed but not used during the election are exempt from preservation requirements.

Furthermore, the bill updates the terminology from "memory card" to "external storage device" and introduces new protocols for handling these devices. It requires town or city clerks to securely lock any programmed external storage devices not in use and maintain an activity log of individuals with access to these devices. The bill also outlines procedures for pre-election testing of electronic ballot counting devices, ensuring that all devices are tested and certified before use in elections. The effective date of the bill is set for 60 days after its passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 33-A:3-a
As Amended by the House: 33-A:3-a, 656:42
As Amended by the Senate: 33-A:3-a, 656:42
Version adopted by both bodies: 33-A:3-a, 656:42
CHAPTERED FINAL VERSION: 33-A:3-a, 656:42