This bill aims to enhance the security measures surrounding the storage and transfer of ballots by amending existing laws related to the chain of custody for ballots. Key changes include the introduction of reusable security containers and locking containers with serialized proprietary sealers for preserving ballots. The Secretary of State is tasked with preparing these containers and sealers, which must now include frangible paper seals. Additionally, the bill specifies that the delivery of sealed containers to town or city clerks must be documented, including the time and signatures of those involved in the process. Further amendments include the requirement for clerks to maintain a log detailing the location of stored containers and limiting access to these containers to authorized individuals. When ballots are forwarded to the Secretary of State, clerks must document the time and date of this transfer on the chain of custody documentation, which the Secretary of State will also certify upon receipt. The bill is set to take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 659:97, 659:98, 659:99