Secretary of state looks to replace ballot-counting equipment

LINCOLN, Neb. — Nebraska’s secretary of state is asking for funding to replace ballot-counting equipment across the state.

Secretary of State Bob Evnen said the state’s ballot counting equipment was purchased in 2005 with Federal Help America Vote Act funds. He said while accurate and secure, parts are becoming scarce, and technologically superior vote tabulators are now available.

Governor Pete Ricketts included funds for the project in his biennium budget released last week after Evnen requested it in a budget submission.

“We appreciate Governor Ricketts including funds in the biennium budget to start the process of replacing aging components in Nebraska’s election infrastructure. I look forward to working with the legislature and our county election officials to finalize this budget request and begin work on this important project,” Evnen said.

If approved by the legislature, new equipment will be delivered to all 93 counties, and training will be provided for all 93 county election officials, prior to the May 12, 2020, statewide primary election. The new ballot counting equipment will adhere to Nebraska’s standard of voting by use of a paper ballot.

“Nebraska’s elections are secure, reliable and accurate. This is one of the steps that we are taking to ensure that our elections remain that way,” Evnen said. “Nebraska’s eligible voters can be confident that their ballots will continue to be cast securely and counted accurately.

Courtesy: NTV