HB 1037 (Rasoul) prohibits the use of direct recording electronic machines (DREs) in elections on and after July 1, 2017. The governing bodies of counties and cities have been prohibited from acquiring DREs for use in elections since July 1, 2007, but under current law the use of previously acquired DREs is permitted for the remainder of their useful life.
According to the Department of Elections, 71 out of 133 localities are using direct recording electronic machines (DREs). The proposed legislation would require localities that are using DREs to replace the voting equipment prior to July 1, 2017. Localities are responsible for the purchase and maintenance of their voting equipment; therefore, the proposed legislation would result in a fiscal impact for local governments and is considered an unfunded mandate.
VACo spoke in opposition to the bill because of the negative fiscal impact to county governments. The measure was defeated in the Campaigns Subcommittee of the House Privileges and Elections Committee.
VACo Contact: Dean A. Lynch, CAE