The proposed bill, HB2787, amends existing election laws to allow the chair and ranking member of the house and senate committees overseeing elections to inspect all voting equipment in a jurisdiction, accompanied by an expert of their choice. This inspection can occur at any time with five calendar days' notice to the opposing party counterpart, and it includes access to source codes and proprietary materials related to the voting equipment. However, inspections must not disrupt the voting process on election day, and both the elected official and their expert are required to maintain confidentiality regarding the information obtained during the inspection unless they believe there is a malfunction or exploitation of the voting equipment.

In contrast to current law, which does not explicitly grant this level of access to elected officials or their experts, the new bill establishes clear rights for these officials to conduct inspections and includes provisions for the presence of opposing party representatives during the process. Additionally, it emphasizes the confidentiality of the inspection findings while allowing for exceptions in cases of suspected malfeasance. This change aims to enhance transparency and accountability in the conduct of elections.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 16-406.01
House Engrossed Version: 16-406.01