The bill amends the Washington state election code to enhance the auditing process during the election certification period. It requires county auditors to conduct audits of duplicated ballots, ensuring a comparison between original and duplicated ballots. New procedures for limited hand-count audits of randomly selected precincts or batches of ballots are introduced, allowing for verification of ballot counting equipment accuracy. Additionally, the bill establishes risk-limiting audits that use statistical methods to confirm election outcomes, with results mandated to be reported to the Secretary of State. Significant changes include the insertion of specific auditing procedures and the clarification of political party observers' roles during the auditing process.

Moreover, the bill enhances the administration of elections by introducing new rules for the examination, testing, approval, and certification of voting systems and vote tallying software. It establishes standards for postelection audits, including random selection of audit samples and methods for investigating discrepancies. The responsibilities of the Secretary of State as the chief election officer are outlined, emphasizing the creation of rules for orderly election processes, ensuring ballot secrecy, accurate vote processing, and fraud prevention. The bill also addresses procedures for ballot transportation, acceptance of electronic documents, and signature verification on ballot declarations, ultimately aiming to improve the integrity and efficiency of the electoral process in Washington state.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 29A.60.125, 29A.60.185, 29A.04.611