Blockchain Legislation A New York assemblyman has proposed legislation asking the State Board of Elections to investigate how blockchain technology might guard voter information during American elections.
Key Points:
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Bill Name: Assembly Bill AA7716
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Sponsor: New York Assembly member Clyde Vanel
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Focus: Studying blockchain’s potential to secure voter data and ensure election integrity.
What the Bill Aims to Achieve
Introduced by Clyde Vanel, Assembly Bill AA7716 asks for extensive research on blockchain technology use in American elections. The aim is to improve protection for voter data and verify the veracity of election results. Especially, the measure requires the New York Board of Elections to:
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Examine how blockchain can protect voter records.
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Ensure transparency in the electoral process.
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Collaborate with experts in blockchain, cybersecurity, and election systems.
Current Status of the Bill
Press time finds the Assembly Election Law Committee reviewing the measure. Should it be approved, it will pass the Assembly and then the State levels before getting to the governor for final clearance. Once passed, the measure mandates that the Board of Elections report its results within one year, together with samples of like blockchain implementations in other states.
Collaboration with Experts
The measure also orders the New York State Board of Elections to evaluate whether blockchain integration into the electoral system is feasible, working with Office of Information Technology Services specialists. This cooperation is supposed to strengthen American election security and openness.
Why Blockchain for Elections?
Blockchain technology is increasingly seen as a solution to enhance election security and prevent voter fraud. By using decentralized networks, blockchain can:
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Enhance voter anonymity while ensuring vote verification.
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Reduce the risk of vote manipulation or hacking.
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Improve transparency in the election process.
Real-World Blockchain Election Use Cases
Blockchain’s role in safeguarding elections is not just theoretical. For example:
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In March 2024, Rarimo launched the Freedom Tool, a blockchain-based digital identity protocol designed to improve electoral systems.
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In October 2024, Georgia’s United National Movement adopted Rarimo’s Freedom Tool to provide voters with a secure, anonymous voting system during the country’s parliamentary elections.
The Freedom Tool uses blockchain technology to ensure that each vote is anonymous and verifiable, offering privacy and security beyond what traditional election systems can provide.
Clyde Vanel’s Ongoing Commitment to Blockchain and Crypto
Long-time proponent of blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies, Clyde Vanel has advocated federal rules for cryptocurrencies. He submitted a similar measure in 2017, but it was rejected. Vanel’s ongoing efforts highlight his will to use cutting-edge technologies to enhance democratic procedures.
Conclusion
Assembly Bill AA7716 represents a significant first step towards introducing blockchain technologies into American elections. Blockchain could transform our attitude to election integrity by safeguarding voter data and improving openness. Demand to Action: Stay updated on the development of this legislation and the expanding role blockchain plays in election security. Please share this article with your lawmakers and let them know how you view blockchain technology’s application in safeguarding voter information and improving openness in American elections.
