NASS Resolution Urging the Measured Utilization of Available Technology and Best Practices in the Security and Conduct of Elections Embracing the Participation of Military & Overseas (UOCAVA) Voters

WHEREAS, the more than six million American citizens living and working abroad comprise an important voting segment in U.S. elections, and;


WHEREAS, state election officials are charged with ensuring the implementation of all federal laws (the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act, the Help America Vote Act, and the Military and Overseas Voter Empowerment Act) which seek to address the logistical barriers that have historically prevented such voters from exercising their right to the franchise, and;


WHEREAS, the recently enacted Military and Overseas Voter Empowerment Act (MOVE), which requires election officials to provide for the electronic transmission of voter registration and ballot requests and for the electronic transmission of blank ballots to the voters, has prompted states and localities to embrace new technologies that provide effective solutions for such activities, and;


WHEREAS, some States have taken steps to allow military and overseas voters to cast their ballots electronically as well, and;


WHEREAS, these practical moves to modernize our democratic process have raised valid privacy and security concerns within the elections community, giving rise to a need for new and enhanced security protocols for the online transmission of voting materials, and that the verification of election results may be confirmed;


WHEREAS, the United States Congress and State Legislatures have demonstrated a good faith effort to address the obstacles facing overseas voters;


NOW BE IT RESOLVED that, in accordance with current federal and state laws, NASS supports the use of new and emerging technologies that facilitate voting by military and overseas citizens, and in keeping with applicable security standards, ensure that the elections process remains accessible, recountable, and secure.