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Cochise County to join voluntary EAC Field Services program to verify voting systems
Summary
The Board of Supervisors unanimously approved voluntary participation in the U.S. Election Assistance Commission's Field Services Program, a federal review intended to verify the county's certified voting system and documentation.
The Cochise County Board of Supervisors voted 3-0 Aug. 5 to authorize voluntary participation in the U.S. Election Assistance Commission's Field Services Program, which the county elections director said will confirm that the county's election system matches the version certified by the EAC.
"The purpose of participating in the field service program is to confirm that the system in use is identical to the one certified by the EAC," Miss Avant said in presenting the item. She described four components of the program, including conformance reviews, hash verification of voting equipment samples, and observation of facility security.
Supervisor Crosby asked about the state's role; Avant said the Arizona Secretary of State had "signed off" to allow Cochise County to participate but does not otherwise participate in the field services program. "Key keyword is voluntary," the chair added.
Supporters said the review would increase transparency and public trust. Allison Morse, who identified herself on the call as an online speaker, praised the program and urged the board to approve it. "If conducted as outlined ... this program will enhance trust and confidence in our elections," Morse said, and recommended that the EAC report generated by the county be made public.
The county staff said Cochise would be the first county in Arizona to participate in the field services program; staff cited prior sample reports from other jurisdictions, including Hawaii and Douglas County, Nebraska, as examples.
The board approved Resolution 25-26 authorizing participation; the motion passed 3-0.
Ending: County elections staff said participation would be ongoing and would include documentation and reporting; board members and the public asked about federal-state relationships and transparency of the program's final report.
