The bill amends the Code of West Virginia by adding a new section, 3-4A-13a, which establishes requirements for the inspection and auditing of electronic voting systems. County commissions are mandated to inspect all precinct tabulating equipment one week before the in-person voting period to ensure that the equipment is independent, nonnetworked, and does not connect to the internet. Following the inspections, county commissions must submit detailed reports to the Secretary of State, confirming the absence of modems and SIM cards in the tabulators, the sealing of equipment, and any necessary actions to address identified issues. Noncompliant equipment is prohibited from use until it meets state law requirements.

Additionally, the Secretary of State is required to conduct a pre-election audit of at least 10% of the precinct tabulating equipment in a minimum of five randomly selected counties, 14 days before election day. The audit will also verify compliance with the same standards and produce a public report of findings. Furthermore, the Secretary of State is tasked with monitoring technological advancements and potential vulnerabilities in voting equipment, providing annual updates to the Joint Committee on Government and Finance regarding any emerging threats to electronic voting security.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 3-4A-13a
Committee Substitute: 3-4A-13a
Engrossed Committee Substitute: 3-4A-13a