[Date Prev][Date Next] [Chronological] [Thread] [Top]

Re: Removal of "Resume Counting" feature



Jeff, Resume Counting is accessible only once an election has been ended on the AccuVote-TS unit, placing the unit in Post-Election Mode,and not before.  In order to have accessed Post-Election Mode, the election must first have been ended using the Administrator card and the entry of a Supervisor Password, and presumably also printed a results report.  Therefore, the results will be known anyway.  The provision of the Administrator card and the Supervisor password provide the security interface necessary that assures that the election is not fraudulently ended on the BallotStation and results reported.
 
All steps of election close must by necessity occur in a secure manner, under the supervision of polling judges, thus preventing any fraudulent entry of results.  Remember also that the change in election mode is reflected in the Audit log, that election media may be uploaded once only, and the voting device results reports must balance against the GEMS results reports.
 
This behavior is consistent with the AccuVote-OS, which we have been using for many years now.  Resume Counting may only be accessed on the AccuVote-OS from Post-Election Mode, and not before.  In order to access Post-Election Mode, an AccuVote Ender card must be submitted to the unit, upon which the results report is automatically printed.  Again, in order to even have reached the Resume Counting option, a results report must have been printed.
 
Nel
----- Original Message -----
Sent: Tuesday, May 14, 2002 7:09 PM
Subject: Removal of "Resume Counting" feature

Ballot Station 4.3.4.0 is currently in process at Wyle Laboratories for
certification. The Resume Counting feature has become an issue. The feature
is considered undesirable because it is viewed as a breach of security as it
allows the "interim printing" of results and the subsequent resumption of
the election process. We have been asked for the reason(s) that the Resume
Counting feature is available, it is imperative that anyone desiring this
feature respond to this post.  Explain how  this feature has been beneficial
to customers.
Jeff Hallmark