CASAGRANDE: SANCTITY OF THE VOTE TAKES A STEP BACKWARD IN NEW JERSEY

Assemblywoman Caroline Casagrande, R- Monmouth and Mercer, expressed her  opposition today over the Assembly State Government Committee’s vote to delay the requirement that voting machines in the state be able to provide a “voter-verified paper record (VVPR). 

The bill, A-3458, would suspend implementation of the law enacted in 2005 which initially mandated that a paper trail of recorded votes be in place by January 1, 2008, and was later extended to January 1, 2009.

“It is more than disappointing that voters in New Jersey cannot be assured that the ballots they cast in the next election will be registered,” stated Casagrande.  “In the three years since the law mandating a paper trail be created to serve as a backup to electronic voting, we have seen nothing but delays and excuses.  It is unacceptable that a simple safeguard such as VVPR is not in place. How many times can we postpone implementing a safety measure that protects a primary civic right?  It is baffling that after three years the manufacturers of the technology that would ensure voter security have yet to provide equipment that functions properly, essentially a printer.”

Casagrande cited issues at polling locations in her district from last week’s elections as reasons for concern.  Specifically, human error by poll workers who improperly pressed the ‘reset’ button on the voting machine resulted in ballots not being recorded.  In addition, Casagrande referred to a recent study that indicated the minimal amount of time it would take a computer hacker to control tabulations, creating havoc in the electoral process.               

“Ensuring the integrity and security of votes cast by the public is one of the highest priorities and responsibilities of government,” explained Casagrande.  “Based on my experiences, and the recent study on the potential for manipulating votes, the public has a right to be skeptical and concerned.  Today’s decision by the committee sends the wrong message. New Jersey can do better.”

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