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Office of Elections staff report fixes to audio ballot and plans for demo ballot after 2024 concerns
Summary
Office of Elections staff told the advisory committee that vendors corrected an audio-ballot volume problem, staff will add a demonstration electronic ballot to the Office website, and staff verified a lag in electronic ballot confirmation and will follow up with vendors.
Office of Elections staff reported to the committee on Dec. 19 that several accessibility issues raised during the 2024 election cycle have been investigated and steps are underway to reduce future problems.
Anthony (Office of Elections) summarized hotline concerns and staff responses. On audio ballots at voter service centers, staff learned the problem was caused by a corrupted audio stream in some locations; the vendor adjusted the volume upward and the Office instructed precinct teams to set appropriate levels before a voter begins using a ballot-marking device. Anthony said staff tested the device during the general election and confirmed the change.
Anthony also described concerns about lag in confirmation that an accessible electronic ballot had been cast. Staff verified the lag and said they will continue to work with the vendor on timely notifications. The Office will also develop and post a demonstration version of the accessible electronic ballot on its website so voters can practice using the technology in future elections.
Public commenter Donald Sakamoto told the committee he experienced a 45-minute audio‑ballot session at one site and perceived inconsistencies in pitch and volume that made navigation difficult. Anthony acknowledged the report, said the vendor identified and addressed an audio-stream issue, and the Office will check voice consistency and relay the comment to the vendor for further review.
Next steps: the Office of Elections will continue vendor follow-up on audio and confirmation issues, update the demonstration ballot on the Office website, and include improved vendor directions for setting audio volume at voter service centers.
