Bill > HB1821

This bill modifies New Hampshire's election record-keeping and transparency laws, focusing on ballot images and cast vote records from electronic ballot counting devices. The legislation requires that ballot images and cast vote records be retained and made publicly available within 48 hours after an election, with specific provisions to ensure transparency and data integrity. Key requirements include backing up ballot images in at least two secure locations (state and municipal), creating a public website for uniform access, mandating certification of electronic ballot counting devices, and establishing an audit log to track record access. The bill introduces civil fines of $250 to $1,000 for election officials who fail to release records on time, with each day or unrelease record constituting a separate violation. Additionally, the bill clarifies write-in voting instructions, requiring voters to "clearly print" write-in names instead of just "writing in" candidates, and modifies the handling of write-in vote documentation. The legislation aims to increase election transparency while protecting voter privacy by ensuring that no identifying information can link a ballot image to a specific voter. The bill will take effect 60 days after its passage, and while it may require municipalities to upgrade ballot counting equipment, potentially incurring costs between $10,000 to $100,000, it represents a significant step towards more open and accountable election record-keeping.

Government Affairs

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_Status/billinfo.aspx?id=2299&inflect=2