Election Board Adds Scanner Tapes and E-Post Reports to Canvassing Policy

In a pivotal meeting held on August 29, 2025, the Fulton County Board of Registration & Elections gathered to discuss essential updates to their election policies, focusing on transparency and operational efficiency. The atmosphere was charged with a sense of responsibility as board members navigated the complexities of electoral processes, ensuring that every detail was meticulously addressed.

One of the key discussions revolved around the inclusion of scanner tapes in the election review process. A board member raised concerns about the absence of this critical data in the current policy, emphasizing that scanner tapes provide vital information during the voting machine examination. The board unanimously agreed to amend the policy to include scanner tapes as a necessary component of their pre-certification review, marking a significant step towards enhancing the integrity of the electoral process.

In addition to the scanner tapes, the board also deliberated on improving the accessibility and usability of voter data. A request was made for a more organized and sortable list of voters, which would facilitate easier comparisons and checks during the canvassing process. The board acknowledged the importance of having a streamlined system, ensuring that all members could efficiently access and analyze the necessary information.

As the meeting progressed, discussions turned to the handling of electronic reports. A member expressed concerns about the security of sensitive data, advocating for strict protocols to prevent unauthorized access. The board reaffirmed its commitment to keeping electronic reports within the designated hub, ensuring that only authorized personnel could access them during the canvassing process.

The conversation also touched on the importance of transparency with the public. A proposal was made to include a ballot canvas summary that would detail provisional ballots and their rejection reasons, aiming to provide citizens with clear insights into the electoral process. This initiative was met with enthusiasm, as board members recognized the value of fostering public trust through transparency.

As the meeting drew to a close, the board prepared to vote on the proposed amendments, including the addition of scanner tapes and the ballot canvas summary. With a shared commitment to improving electoral processes, the members left the meeting with a renewed sense of purpose, ready to implement changes that would enhance the integrity and transparency of elections in Fulton County.