The U.S. Election Assistance Commission advanced a recommendation to promote the use of paper ballots in elections, along with a paper trail for ballots to track their handling.
The four commission members voted to approve the proposal and made a paper copy of their vote tally available online.
The decision does not require that all voting jurisdictions use paper ballots. It is a voluntary promotion and is aimed primarily at federal elections.
The EAC website notes: "While participation in the program is voluntary for states, many have laws or regulations requiring some level of compliance with the EAC's certification standards."
The EAC also noted that only a few voting districts in the U.S. do not employ some form of paper trail system for votes. The commission said using paper ballots and a paper trail for how they are handled "enhances election verifiability, audit functions and voter confidence."
Commission members believe the use of paper ballots would not create issues for voters with disabilities, who "have the right to cast a ballot privately and independently."
Accessibility remains a priority for the EAC, and this policy will not prevent voters with disabilities from exercising their right to cast a ballot.
EAC advisory committees have also recommended audits as a way to enhance the legitimacy of election ballot counts.
Jim Mishler ✉
Jim Mishler, a seasoned reporter, anchor and news director, has decades of experience covering crime, politics and environmental issues.
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