Technology (Government Transparency)

HB 1821 requires election officials to publicly post ballot images and cast vote records (voter selections captured by electronic machines) within 48 hours after an election, making this data accessible online. It mandates secure backups at both state and municipal levels, standardized formats for counting devices, and audit logs tracking access to prevent tampering. The bill exempts records involving fewer than 10 absentee ballots or specific ballot designs from standard public access rules but requires all other records to be posted publicly. Officials face civil fines of $250-$1,000 per violation for failing to meet the 48-hour deadline. This applies directly to local election clerks and the secretary of state’s office, ensuring transparency in election results.