Assemblymember Clyde Vanel introduces legislation to study blockchain’s role in protecting voter data and ensuring election transparency
New Proposal Targets Election Security Through Blockchain
A New York State assemblyman has introduced legislation that could mark a major step toward integrating blockchain technology into the electoral process in the United States.
Bill AA7716 Calls for Formal Study of Blockchain in Elections
Assemblymember Clyde Vanel has filed Assembly Bill AA7716, urging the New York State Board of Elections to launch a comprehensive study into how blockchain could be leveraged to enhance data security for voters and ensure greater transparency in election outcomes.
Legislative Process Underway
The Assembly Election Law Committee is currently considering the measure, which calls for a formal assessment of blockchain’s potential applications in maintaining voter records and election integrity. If passed, the law would proceed through the legislative process before being sent to the governor’s desk for final approval.
Collaboration with Technology and Cybersecurity Experts Required
The proposed legislation outlines a collaborative effort between the Board of Elections and the New York State Office of Information Technology Services. It also calls for input from industry experts specializing in blockchain, cybersecurity, voter fraud prevention, and electoral systems.
Report Expected Within One Year of Enactment
Should the bill become law, the Board of Elections would be required to publish a detailed report within one year. This report would include an analysis of how blockchain could improve the security and transparency of elections, along with case studies from other states that have experimented with similar technologies.
Vanel’s Ongoing Advocacy for Blockchain Legislation
The collaboration combines Ashtead’s project management, training, installation assistance, and skilled offshore technicians with EdgeTech’s cutting-edge sub-bottom profiling sonar technology. When combined, they guarantee smooth deployment and continuous assistance at every stage of a project.
Global Examples Highlight Blockchain’s Electoral Potential
The concept of blockchain-based voting has gained momentum in recent years. In March 2024, blockchain registry Rarimo launched the Freedom Tool, a digital identity protocol designed to revolutionize electoral systems by making voting anonymous, secure, and verifiable through blockchain infrastructure.
Case Study: Georgia’s Blockchain Voting Experiment
The tool was put to the test in October 2024 during Georgia’s parliamentary elections, when the opposition party United National Movement launched United Space, an identity app powered by Rarimo’s technology. The app allowed voters to participate in the electoral process without compromising their privacy — a key advantage over traditional voting systems.
A Step Toward Modernizing Democracy
As the push for secure and transparent elections continues, Vanel’s latest bill signals growing interest among lawmakers in exploring how blockchain might reshape the future of American democracy.
