Unlike the secret inner workings of these proprietary systems, there are “open source” voting systems that are cheaper, more transparent and more secure. Open source voting systems use source code that is publicly available, so government jurisdictions and independent experts can verify that the software counts votes impartially and accurately. The nonprofit VotingWorks has an open source voting system used in other states, but certification by California’s Secretary of State would cost up to $1 million. Open source systems, being freely available, have no such revenue stream, making certification a significant barrier without help from the state. For about $1 million dollars — a rounding error in the budget — California could save taxpayers many times more and gain a more transparent, secure, publicly owned voting system.

Source: Los Angeles Times February 18, 2026 13:45 UTC