House Bill No. 3709 amends Section 127.201 of the Election Code to enhance the accuracy of electronic voting system results through a more structured manual counting process. The bill stipulates that the general custodian of election records must conduct a manual count of all races in either at least one percent of election precincts or three precincts, whichever is greater, or at least one percent of polling places participating in the countywide polling place program or three countywide polling places, also whichever is greater. Additionally, the custodian is required to select these locations at random and commence the count within 72 hours after polls close, completing it no later than the 21st day after election day.

The bill also modifies the responsibilities of the secretary of state in selecting the precincts or countywide polling places for the manual count, allowing for the designation of not more than three offices and three propositions to be counted. Furthermore, it mandates that the general custodian post a notice of the count's details on the county's Internet website home page, replacing the previous requirement to post this information in the custodian's office. The changes aim to improve transparency and reliability in the electoral process, with the new provisions set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Election Code 127.201 (Election Code 127)
House Committee Report: Election Code 127.201 (Election Code 127)
Engrossed: Election Code 127.201 (Election Code 127)