Strengthens Massachusetts' post-election audit process by requiring hand-counted audits and establishing a workgroup to study risk-limiting audits.

This bill amends Massachusetts' election laws to enhance the post-election audit process. It mandates hand-counted audits of specific races and ballot questions in selected precincts, conducted by the board of registrars or election commission. Audits must begin 15 days after an election and be completed before returns are certified. The state secretary oversees the analysis of audit discrepancies and publishes findings online. A workgroup, including experts and officials, studies risk-limiting audits and best practices, with a report due by July 31, 2027.

Strengthens Massachusetts' post-election audit process by requiring hand-counted audits and establishing a workgroup to study risk-limiting audits.

This bill amends Massachusetts' election laws to enhance the post-election audit process. It mandates hand-counted audits of specific races and ballot questions in selected precincts, conducted by the board of registrars or election commission. Audits must begin 15 days after an election and be completed before returns are certified. The state secretary oversees the analysis of audit discrepancies and publishes findings online. A workgroup, including experts and officials, studies risk-limiting audits and best practices, with a report due by July 31, 2027.