AR HB1687

Requires paper ballots to be compatible with electronic vote tabulation devices selected by the Secretary of State and to include a unique watermark for each election cycle.

Counties choosing hand-counted paper ballots must bear the costs of ballots, printing devices, and labor while remaining eligible for reimbursement as if using machine tabulation.

Mandates ballots be marked with permanent ink and run through electronic tabulation devices before hand counting, with machine tabulation required for general elections and preferential primaries and optional for other elections under 5,000 registered voters.

Establishes procedures for hand counting including sealed ballot transport to designated locations 30 days before election, minimum two-person verification per ballot, completion 24 hours before certification deadline, and public observation with three-foot minimum distance from poll workers.

Declares an emergency effective upon governor approval to ensure elections conducted by paper ballot meet integrity standards, accommodate disabled voters, and comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act.