25-4604. Same; request for examination; cost payment; notice and hearing; review of approved systems. (a) Any person, firm or corporation desiring to sell any kind or make of system using optical scanning equipment to counties in this state may make a request in writing of the secretary of state to examine the kind or make of the system using optical scanning equipment which it desires to sell and shall accompany the request with a certified check in the amount of $250 payable to the secretary of state, and shall furnish at its own expense such optical scanning equipment and other items necessary for operation of such system to the secretary of state for use in examining such equipment and system. The secretary of state may require such person, firm or corporation to furnish a competent person to explain the system and demonstrate by the operation of such system that such system complies with state and federal laws. The secretary of state may employ a competent person or persons to assist in the examination and to advise the secretary as to the sufficiency of such system and equipment and to pay such persons reasonable compensation therefor. The costs of employment and other costs associated with the approval of such system shall be paid by the applicant.

(b) The secretary of state may require a review of any theretofore approved system using optical scanning equipment and the operation thereof. Such review shall be commenced by the secretary of state giving written notice to the person, firm or corporation which sought approval of the system and to each county election officer and county commissioner of counties known to have purchased, leased or rented any such system or equipment. Such notice shall fix a time and place of hearing at which those persons wishing to be heard may appear and give oral or written testimony and explanation of the system, its optical scanning equipment and operation and experience had therewith. After such hearing date and after such review as the secretary of state deems appropriate, the secretary of state may renew approval of the system and such equipment, require changes therein for continued approval thereof or rescind approval previously given on either a conditioned or permanent basis.

(c) The secretary of state may appoint persons to assist county election officers or county commissioners in the testing of any system using optical scanning equipment and the programs of the system.

History: L. 1982, ch. 158, § 4; L. 2007, ch. 125, § 27; July 1.