Maryland State Wire

Today, the final passage of SB 313 / HB 426, aimed at strengthening the post-election audit process, has been completed and is now on its way to the governor for signing into law. Maryland's Common Cause and partner Verified Voting have praised this legislative step.

"Every voter deserves to know election outcomes are fair and accurate. This legislation will ensure election outcomes truly reflect the will of voters," said Joanne Antoine, Executive Director of Common Cause Maryland. She acknowledged the leadership of Senator M. Washington and Delegate Kaiser in promoting this initiative.

Delegate Anne R. Kaiser emphasized the value of risk-limiting audits, stating, "Risk-limiting audits are the gold standard for auditing election results. With the support of Del. Jheanelle Wilkins, the State Board of Elections, and local boards of elections, I am pleased to announce that we are moving forward and replacing our current, low-tech auditing procedures."

Liz Iacobucci of Common Cause remarked on Maryland's move towards risk-limiting audits: "We’re delighted that Maryland is joining the growing list of states using risk-limiting audits to increase voter confidence in election outcomes." She listed several states that employ this method, with Texas planning to start in 2026.

Senator Mary Washington sees this legislation as a modernization effort: "Risk-limiting audits are a critical step toward ensuring Maryland’s elections remain secure, transparent, and trustworthy. With SB313, we are modernizing our election audits to reinforce public confidence in our democracy."

Pamela Smith, President & CEO of Verified Voting, expressed satisfaction in the bill's progress: "Voters want to know elections are being checked for accuracy. With the passage of SB 313/HB 426, risk-limiting audits provide Maryland’s election officials with the most effective tool to check outcomes, and ensure the right person is seated in office."

Currently, Maryland's post-election manual audit occurs months after elections, and the automated audit has limitations. SB 313 / HB 426 mandates that risk-limiting audits, known for their rigor and cost-effectiveness, be performed following each statewide election to confirm that results match votes cast.

Common Cause Maryland and Verified Voting have both actively supported the bill.

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