Committee approves leasing funds for new tabulation machines despite timing concerns
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Summary
The Appropriations Committee approved funding to lease new voter tabulation machines after debate about timing for deployment ahead of the November election; the Secretary of State's office said an RFP was issued and machines could be delivered by July for training; the motion passed 7–4.
The Appropriations Committee voted 7–4 to approve leasing funds for new voter tabulation machines on Feb. 10 after members raised concerns about timing and optics.
Representative Ducharme and others warned that introducing new machines close to an election risks logistical challenges and public concern. "If we're gonna put money into leasing new voter tabulation machines, is there a timeline?" Ducharme asked, saying she was "terribly concerned" about deploying machines before upcoming elections.
Kate McGrine, chief deputy secretary of state, told the committee the office had just issued a request for proposals and that, "following the schedule, we should be able to have a contract signed and machines received by July, in which case we can get them all formatted and out to the towns with plenty of time for training." McGrine said current tabulators are 14 years old and clerks have requested replacements and additional units to improve line speed and accessibility.
Representative O'Rourke said she would oppose the timing because of optics and potential controversy around election administration; Representative Blythe also expressed concern that rolling out new equipment so close to an election could create disruption. Supporters said updated, reliable and accessible equipment is needed to avoid breakdowns on election day.
After agency testimony and committee debate, the motion to move line 134 in — leasing funds for new tabulation machines — carried 7–4.
